For the second year in a row, Health Union has gathered survey data from hundreds of real people impacted by advanced stages of breast cancer. This year, the second annual Advanced Breast Cancer In America survey, a syndicated research study from Health Union, quantifies the true impact of this condition among patients and their loved ones – going beyond basic demographics and symptoms to establish a deep understanding of the holistic patient journey for those affected and to track trends over time.

The new data from the second annual Advanced Breast Cancer In America survey reveals deep insights of a population of 546 people who were diagnosed at a median age of 50 and half of which have had breast cancer more than once. Additionally, 35% of these respondents were first diagnosed at stage IV and 37% have a family history of breast cancer.

The experiences of the advanced breast cancer community are unique, and language used to describe people living with non-late stage breast cancer may not resonate. When asked what language the advanced community prefers to hear vs. finds offensive, survey respondents wrote they prefer language like, “Living with breast cancer” or  “Chronic illness” rather than “Survivor” or “Terminal.”

This access to a broad base of knowledge, facts and data gleaned from Health Union’s open online health communities like AdvancedBreastCancer.net and syndicated research allows the healthcare industry to harness the power of Health Union’s continuous immersion in the patient experience to deliver smarter insights and implications–so you can spend your time developing the strategies that will make a difference.