It Takes 6 to 9 Months for Peruvian Patients to Get a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Breast cancer is the leading cause of mortality in women worldwide, and in Peru an annual incidence of 28 cases per 100,000 inhabitants is estimated, with Lima, Callao, Tumbes, Piura, Lambayeque and La Libertad being the regions with the highest diagnostic index, according to data from the Ministry of Health (Minsa, 2021). Unfortunately, in the public service, women can take 6-9 months to receive a diagnosis. Given this reality, it is essential to decentralize the diagnosis and care of breast cancer and promote a culture of prevention throughout the country.

Oncologist Luis Sánchez, from the Santa Rosa de Piura Hospital, emphasizes that early detection of this disease is crucial for effective treatment. “Women ages 40 to 44 can start early detection with an annual mammogram, while women ages 45 to 54 should have a mammogram every year. Starting at age 55, they can choose to have a mammogram every two years. Therefore, in the event of any symptom or indication of this disease, it is advisable to go to the nearest health center”, commented the expert.

It is critical that women diagnosed with breast cancer receive active medical care and appropriate treatment, regardless of whether it is detected early or at an advanced stage. In addition, the oncologist suggests that patients who have completed their treatment continue to be monitored to make sure that the cancer has not come back or that they do not have side effects that could affect their health.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, if current trends are not controlled, the burden of breast cancer will increase to 2.74 million new cases and 857,000 deaths annually globally by 2030 and to 3.19 million cases and 1.04 million deaths in 2040. Therefore, it is essential to promote a culture of prevention in society to inform women about how to perform an adequate breast check-up. The Minsa points out that breast cancer has a 90% chance of being cured if it is detected on time and innovative and personalized treatments are used.

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