Emerging worldwide trends of breast cancer incidence in the 1970s and 1980s: data from 23 cancer registration centres.

The aim of the study was to estimate the change in breast cancer incidence around the world in the last two decades, to investigate a hypothesized rise (of epidemic proportions) in incidence of the disease, and to assess the potential for its prevention. This was done by examining data from 23 registries worldwide. The anticipated widespread and epidemic proportions of the increases in breast cancer incidence were consistent with the proposed hypothesis. The results are discussed in these terms, and alternative actions for the prevention of the epidemic extent of breast cancer in the community are suggested.