In 1993, the World Health Organization declared October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and October 15 as World Breast Cancer Day. The main objective of this Day is to draw the attention of the population and the public to the issues related to oncological diseases of the mammary glands, and to increase public awareness regarding approaches to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of this pathology.
In the Brest Region, the Breast Cancer Awareness Week is being held from October 12, 2026, to October 16, 2026.
Worldwide, breast cancer ranks first in the structure of oncological diseases among women, and the incidence rate is constantly growing, which is associated with both an increase in life expectancy and improvements in the quality of diagnostics. Annually, about 2.5 million new cases of the disease and around 700 thousand deaths from breast cancer are detected globally (IARC, Globocan, 2024). According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer in Europe and the leading cause of cancer mortality among women.
In the structure of incidence of malignant neoplasms among the female population of the Brest Region, breast cancer holds a leading position. In recent years, more than 700 cases of breast cancer have been detected annually in the region, with more than 90% of all breast cancer cases diagnosed in women over 40 years old; the average age of those affected is 61 years.
Over the past 10 years, the incidence of breast cancer has increased 1.2 times. Despite the growth in incidence, the mortality rate from breast cancer remains at the same level; however, breast cancer ranks first in the mortality structure of the female population.
Scientists have proven that 5 to 7 years pass from the moment the first cancer cell appears until its clinical manifestations in breast cancer. Throughout this entire period, there is a significant probability of complete curability of the cancer.
Early diagnosis is crucial in oncology—the sooner a tumor is detected and treatment is initiated, the better the results. When breast cancer is detected at Stage I, the probability of a complete cure reaches 95% or more. Modern methods of breast cancer diagnosis allow for the detection of this pathology at early stages and its effective treatment.
In the Republic of Belarus, significant attention is paid to the prevention and early diagnosis of oncological diseases. Preventive health screenings of the population are of great importance, a key component of which is the examination of the mammary glands to detect malignant neoplasms and precancerous diseases.
Currently, within the framework of the State Program “Health of the Nation” for 2026–2030, the project “Prevention and Early Diagnosis of Cancer” is being implemented in the country. One of the project’s directions includes measures for the early diagnosis of pre-tumor and tumor diseases of the mammary gland as part of routine health checks. Women aged 49–58 who have no symptoms of breast disease are subject to screening. The examination is carried out by conducting a mammographic study of the mammary glands once every 3 years. If a breast disease is suspected, women are referred to oncology dispensaries for further examination.
In the Year of the Belarusian Woman, holding events aimed at preserving and strengthening the health of the female population is particularly relevant. After all, women’s health is the health of the nation. Even if there are no symptoms of disease, it is vital to undergo diagnostic examinations in a timely manner, not to ignore any unusual sensations or changes in the breast area, and to consult a specialist promptly for diagnosis. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment and health preservation.
