Breast cancer: a call to international awareness .

Every October 19th the global community celebrates International Breast Cancer Day, in an effort to raise awareness of the disease and promote early detection, timely treatment and prevention of the disease.

Every October 19th, the global community celebrates International Breast Cancer Awareness Day in an effort to raise awareness of the disease and promote early detection, timely treatment and prevention.

This type of cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide, although it also affects men to a lesser extent. Detecting it in its early stages significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, it is estimated that annually more than 462,000 women are diagnosed with this disease in the Americas, with a higher percentage of deaths in women under 65 years of age in the Latin American and Caribbean region.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening of the breast, changes in the size or skin of the breast, irregularities in its contour or pain on palpation.

However, despite medical advances in diagnosis and treatment, convalescents may experience physical sequelae such as lymphedema, early menopause, mastectomy or other emotional or psychological discomforts.

Barriers in health systems and lack of patient awareness make early detection difficult, leading to late diagnosis and poor outcomes, especially in young women. This situation contributes to premature mortality and maternal orphanhood, highlighting the need for improved care and support for women affected by this disease.

It is also worth noting that the commemoration of International Breast Cancer Day has extended beyond October 19th and has become an entire month of awareness, with activities and events that seek to involve society in this cause, promoting breast self-examination, regular mammograms and a healthy lifestyle as preventive measures.

The use of the pink ribbon is also a representative symbol of the fight against this ailment and in this 2024, under the slogan No one should face breast cancer alone, the international community ratifies its unconditional support, understanding and deference to those suffering from this condition.

Written by Yadiel Barbón Salgado.