Breast cancer
Last update
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, and most patients survive the disease for five years or more. There were 4,215 new cases of breast cancer recorded in 2024.
About breast cancer
The incidence of breast cancer has increased significantly in recent decades. In 2022, there was more than twice as much breast cancer among Norwegian women as in 1958. Every year, 25-30 men are affected by breast cancer, and the incidence for men has been stable for the past 50 years.
For those affected by this disease, the prospects of survival are steadily improving, and those who do not recover live longer with the disease.
In addition to previous diagnosis, great progress has been made in the treatment of breast cancer in recent years.
Key figures - breast cancer 2024
New cases
Women: 4215
Men: 36
Rates - number of cases per 100,000
Women: 139.6
Men: 1.2
Five-year relative survival - women (2020-2024)
92.8 %
Cancer survivors - both genders:
61,204 people as of 31.12.2024
Deaths (2023)
Women: 616
Men: 5
Cumulative risk of developing breast cancer up to age 80 (2020-2024)
Women: 10.8 %
Men: 0.1 %
Risk factors
There is no single reason why more and more women are getting breast cancer.
However, we know of several risk factors for the disease. The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Most cases occur after the age of 50. Therefore, Norwegian women are invited to mammography screening from about the age of 50. Women who have breast or ovarian cancer in their family may also be at increased risk. Between 5 and 10 percent of breast cancer cases may be due to heredity. How early children are born, how many babies are born, and the extent to which breastfeeding children have also been shown in large studies to be associated with breast cancer risk.
Several lifestyle factors can increase the risk of getting breast cancer. Obesity after menopause, alcohol intake and lack of physical activity can increase the risk. Long-term use of hormone supplements with the combination of oestrogen and progestogen in connection with menopause also increases the risk of breast cancer.
Questions about cancer
The Cancer Registry of Norway is a research institution. Our professionals therefore do not answer questions about diagnosis, assessment, treatment and follow-up from patients or their relatives.
Inquiries about this information should be directed to your general practitioner, treating institution, or the Norwegian Cancer Society's advisory service at phone: +47 21 49 49 21.