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Global Perceptions of Women on Breast Cancer and Barriers to Screening

  • Breast Cancer (AS Zimmer, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Oncology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Breast cancer (BC) is a public health dilemma across the globe and a leading cause of mortality for women. Approximately 2.1 million newly diagnosed female BC cases occurred in 2018, comprising nearly 1 in 4 cancer cases among women. When BC is recognized in its early stages, successful treatment results can be achieved. Therefore, screening for BC is of paramount significance and routine screening mammography has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality from BC. Despite being considered a global health issue, national screening programmes are offered only in developed countries and BC is still often diagnosed in advanced stages.

Recent Findings

Disparities in screening exist not only between different countries but also between local and immigrant populations within a particular country. Low screening is attributed to low public awareness as well as numerous social, psychological, and geographical barriers to screening.

Summary

This review addresses (a) the differences in BC awareness and screening across the globe, (b) the most important barriers and facilitators to screening, and (c) the potential role of health education programmes to increase BC awareness and promote BC screening programmes with the ultimate goal to achieve earlier stage diagnosis of BC.

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  1. Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, CY-1700, Nicosia, Cyprus

    Mariah Mascara & Constantina Constantinou

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  1. Mariah Mascara
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Correspondence to Constantina Constantinou.

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Mascara, M., Constantinou, C. Global Perceptions of Women on Breast Cancer and Barriers to Screening. Curr Oncol Rep 23, 74 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-021-01069-z

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