This year was a big one for cancer treatment.

A quick and easy self-check could make a big difference in women's health.

A mammogram each year is a good way to catch breast cancer early, right? Actually, it depends on who you ask.

Between 5 and 10 percent of breast cancer cases have a genetic basis. While it might be tempting to know whether you have a mutated breast cancer gene, genetic testing is only recommended for people with certain risk factors.

Many cancers are not detected until it's too late. But there are some early signs of cancer that women might overlook. Knowing the symptoms to look for can help a doctor diagnose cancer early, which can boost the odds of successful treatment.

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer has come a long way in the last 50 years. Today, many patients are living past their cancers.

Staying healthy requires being proactive about your health by scheduling and attending necessary health screenings. There are some screenings in particular that every woman should know about.

Abnormal genes can cause breast cells to grow out of control and become cancerous. By identifying specific gene mutations in tumors, doctors can provide improved targeted treatment for these breast cancers.

When a woman learns she has breast cancer, she may go into something of a twilight zone. She might be in shock for a while, stunned to learn she has a disease every woman fears.

Mega-star Angelina Jolie announced in a New York Times op-ed that she had both breasts removed. She does not have breast cancer. Ms. Jolie has done this to reduce her risks of developing both breast and ovarian cancer.