Study on Incidence of Breast Cancer Among Members of Armed Forces Serving on Active Duty
Publication Status: Published
Sponsoring Organization: Defense Health Agency (formerly TRICARE Management Activity)
Sponsoring Office: Defense Health Agency (formerly TRICARE Management Activity)
Congressionally Mandated: Yes
Funding Source: Defense Health Agency (formerly TRICARE Management Activity)
Release Date/Publication:
Principle Investigator Status: Government
Primary DoD Data Source: Automated Central Tumor Registry
Secondary DoD Data Source: Military Health System (MHS) Data Repository
Abstract
The Department of Defense (DOD), Defense Health Agency submits this report in accordance with the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (HR 4310), section 737, that calls on The Secretary of Defense to conduct a study on the incidence of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces.
The findings from this study indicate that breast cancer incidence among active service members is a rare event. The female breast cancer incidence rate among this population has not changed significantly across the study period, 2000 through 2010, and the age-adjusted incidence rate is significantly lower over that time period when compared with national incidence rates reported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Approximately 72% of all breast cancer patients are first diagnosed at stages 0, I or II, which suggests that the Department’s outreach efforts to promote awareness and use of screening services have been effective for detecting tumors early. Upon detection, the service member has access to robust treatment options that reflect evidenced-based clinical practices and cutting-edge technologies offered in nationally-accredited cancer programs within the Military Health System. Since TRICARE has a process to assimilate emerging cancers technologies, medications, and practice into the benefit, the need for changes to law or policy are not apparent for the DOD to sustain a high level of commitment to quality cancer care.
Citation:
Williams TV, AFHSC, JPC, NMCPHC, WRNMMC, Brandeis University, Axiom Resource Management, Inc.
For More Information:
Contact DHA/Analytics at 703-681-3636