Breast cancer is the most common type among women in Brazil and worldwide. For this year, 73,000 new cases are estimated in the country. Its impact, both financial and psychological, is huge – configuring one of the biggest public health challenges today.
The October Rose campaign, which began in the 1990s, fulfills an essential role in awareness. But it must be remembered: Breast health care should be continuous, not only concentrated in one month of the year. Therefore, World Cancer Day is an excellent date to remember this theme.
Mammography is the main screening exam. When a tumor is detected early, even without symptoms, there is up to 90% chance of healing.
Therefore, prevention must be a daily commitment. Balanced diet, regular physical activity and healthy weight maintenance significantly reduce individual risk. Less than 10% of cases are related to hereditary genetic syndromes, which reinforces the importance of healthy habits.
Technology and advances in diagnosis and treatment
Today it is already possible to make genetic evaluation at lower costs, which helps identify women who need personalized tracking. In addition, new therapies are available in Brazil, such as PARP inhibitors (for women with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes) and ADCs, antibodies linked to chemotherapy drugs that act directly on cancer cells, such as a “Trojan horse”.
Artificial intelligence has also gained space, assisting radiologists in detecting suspicious lesions during image exams.
Access inequalities compromise early diagnosis
Despite the advances, Brazil faces an unequal scenario. In the private sector, there is quick access to mammography, biopsies, surgery and modern therapies. Already in SUS, where most of the population is concentrated, many women face queues and delays for exams and treatments. This reality makes early diagnosis difficult and directly impacts the survival rate. It is essential that public policies are strengthened to ensure egalitarian access to all Brazilians.
Preventing is still the best choice
What can women do to reduce the risk of breast cancer? Consulting regularly with the doctor, performing tracking tests according to professional guidance, practicing physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding overweight and seeking information from reliable sources. The best strategy remains prevention.
*Text written by clinical oncologist Gustavo de Oliveira Bretas (CRM 52.111404-2 | RQE 35177), member of Brazil Health
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This content was originally published in prevention all year long: which did not tell you about breast cancer on CNN Brazil.
Source: CNN Brasil
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