Breast Cancer: The Critical Role of Early Detection and Modern Diagnostic Techniques
During the global Breast Cancer Awareness Month, initiated by the World Health Organization in 1993, special emphasis is placed on the importance of early detection of this devastating disease.
Statistics reveal that breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, affecting over 2 million women annually, with approximately 670,000 deaths each year.
In Ukraine, according to the National Cancer Registry of 2024, about 170,000 new cases are diagnosed yearly, with nearly 20% resulting in death.
However, official figures often underreport the true scope, as war-related disruptions and outdated demographic data hinder accurate assessments.
Projections by the International Agency for Research on Cancer warn that by 2050, annually, there could be 3.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths globally.
Ukraine faces an even more alarming scenario: nearly one-third of women diagnosed with breast cancer are already at advanced stages, complicating treatment options and reducing survival chances.
The primary cause of late detection is women’s neglect of preventive screenings, fear of diagnosis, or misunderstanding of early symptoms.
It is crucial to understand that early detection dramatically improves treatment success rates: stage I breast cancer is curable in over 90% of cases.
Regular screenings, including annual mammograms, ultrasound examinations from age 35-40, and clinical breast exams, are vital.
Modern diagnostic tools enable the detection of even millimeter-sized changes, allowing minimally invasive treatment methods and reducing complications.
Every woman in Ukraine has the right to free preventive examinations—she needs to register with her family doctor, receive an electronic referral through the eHealth system, and identify a healthcare facility partnered with the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU).
Following that, she can schedule an appointment, undergo high-quality imaging with advanced equipment that uses artificial intelligence for precise results, and discuss the outcomes with her doctor.
These innovative machines, with soft compression technology and low radiation doses, enhance the comfort and safety of the procedure.
Raising awareness about the importance of regular screening and early diagnosis can significantly reduce mortality rates and save countless lives.
We firmly believe that increased consciousness and proactive health measures will make breast cancer a less threatening disease for Ukrainian women, offering hope for healthier, longer lives.