Breast Cancer Research Trends (Including DES References) 1978-2025

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides an overview of Basic Information about Breast Cancer.

Below is an updated directory of published research focusing on overall trends in breast cancer epidemiology, prevalence, testing, diagnosis, risk assessment, treatment strategies, emotional support, and patient consultations with a special emphasis on literature referencing women exposed to DES–diethylstilbestrol (mothers and offspring). This guide continues to evolve over time and areas of focus in 2025.

>>> DES Research Note: Historically, research on DES-exposed mothers as well as their daughters has identified an increased risk of developing breast cancer (cite Hilakivi-Clarke, 2014). The latest available guide to Diethylstilbestrol (DES) Exposure and Cancer (2022) from the National Cancer Institute recognizes that DES daughters after age 40 have approximately twice the risk of developing breast cancer as unexposed women. References with focus on or inclusion of DES effects are marked with (*).

Topics Included in Research Covered in this Guide:

Health and Medical Issues
* Breast cancer risk factors
* Breast cancer epidemiology
* Screening, detection, and diagnosis
* Varieties of symptoms of breast cancer
* Aging and increases in breast cancer risk and mortality
* Stages of breast cancer detection and diagnosis
* Time from cancer detection to treatment, especially surgery
* Determination of treatment therapies and options
* Survival and mortality rates and various related factors
* Mammographic screening options
* Types of breast cancer, classifications, and various related factors
* Triple-negative breast cancer
* Treatment options and patient care
* Surgery approaches, including breast concerving options
* Chemotherapy strategies and effects

Psychological/Emotional Effects and Support
* Identification of supportive care options
* Managing emotional effects of diagnosis and treatment, especially anxiety and depression
* Psychological interventions at early stages of diagnosis and ongoing
* Strengthening self-compassion and post-traumatic growth
* Importance of social support networks, in-person and online
* Cognitive-behavioral therapy for patients
* Internet-delivered psychotherapy where possible

October 2025 Update–Comprehensive Review of Published Research**

2024-25

** Note: A 7-page summary guide DES (Diethylstilbestrol) Exposure and Breast Cancer Risk updated in June 2024 is available upon request.