The rate of new breast cancer incidences have plateaued and may even be declining, says a new report from the National Institutes of Health.  

   From the Washington Post today:

   After climbing steadily since the 1980's, the breast cancer rate stopped rising in 2001 and may have started to fall in 2003, according to the latest federal data.  While it will take more years before it becomes clear whether the change marks the start of a lasting trend, the statistics appear to indicate a tantalizing shift, experts say.

   The report did not examine why this is occurring, but they speculate that elevated usage of mammography, less women delaying childbearing, and less use of hormones after menopause may be having an impact.  
   
   The death rate from breast cancer has been dropping due to improved treatment and earlier diagnosis.  Yet, this is the first sign that women getting breast cancer has stopped increasing.

   Keep up the good work ladies!  Stay strong, eat healthy, and stay informed.