Staging cancer is one of the most important components from the physician's viewpoint. Determining the stage of the disease or how far it has spread in the body helps the physician determine the type of treatment best suited for those diagnosed with cancer. Our number two site was lung with 17 percent diagnosed at the hospital and 14 percent seen nationally. Colorectal cancer, prostate and bladder cancer were our third, fourth and fifth most frequently seen sites at Manatee Memorial Hospital and Health System. M.D. It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that 182,800 new invasive cases of breast cancer are expected to occur among women in the United Stated during the 2000.
Mammograms remain our best defense against breast cancer.
A mammogram can be an especially valuable diagnostic tool as it can identify abnormalities that may occur in an early stage before physical symptoms develop. The largest declines in breast cancer mortality have been attributed, in part, to the use of regular screening mammogram. The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older have an annual mammogram and an annual clinical breast exam by a health care professional. Women should also perform monthly breast exams. Florida ranks 29th in the U.S. for breast cancer cases.