As the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) this October, the World Health Organization (WHO) is placing a renewed focus on tackling breast cancer worldwide.
In 2021, WHO launched the Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) to reduce breast cancer mortality rates by 2.5% annually by 2040, potentially saving 2.5 million lives. This October, the initiative will focus on three key pillars: health promotion for early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive breast cancer management.
Alarmingly, 70% of deaths from breast cancer take place in environments with limited resources, leading to a high rate of late-stage diagnoses and worse outcomes since early detection and prompt treatment are not readily available.
With approximately 2.3 million new cases each year, breast cancer represents one in eight cancer diagnoses across both sexes and accounts for a quarter of all cancers among women
Addressing Disparities in Care
Breast cancer frequently affects younger people and results in premature deaths. It is a devastating disease in areas with minimal resources. Health system constraints and a lack of awareness are obstacles to care that cause detection and treatment to be delayed. The BCAM initiative seeks to promote behavioral modification.
A Global Platform for Change
This year’s BCAM commemoration will involve various stakeholders, emphasizing patient-centered care, thorough treatment, and early diagnosis, particularly in addressing gender and socioeconomic gaps that hinder access to breast cancer care.
Building on Global Efforts
BCAM 2024 offers a chance to reflect on the progress made since the GBCI’s launch, renew commitments to breast cancer reduction, and strengthen partnerships to drive momentum and encourage more countries to adopt comprehensive initiatives.
With breast cancer continuing to affect millions, this year’s campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive care in saving lives and supporting survivors.
Source: WHO
