Breast cancer: why link early detection to reproductive health interventions in developing countries?
Breast cancer has not been sufficiently integrated into broader efforts either on maternal and child, or reproductive health and this presents an opportunity to strengthen early detection. The analysis is based on global breast cancer statistics and a bibliographic review of key global programs and strategies to promote women s health in the developing world. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in all regions of the developing world and is striking many women during the reproductive phase. There is an opportunity to increase awareness among women and undertake clinical examination to detect breast cancer by linking to existing health interventions related to reproductive and maternal and child health in developing countries. These synergies should be tested and evaluated in developing countries to identify the potential impact on early detection and on reducing the proportion of cases that are found in more advanced stages.
Knaul
Felicia
F
Tómatelo a Pecho y Observatorio de la Salud, Instituto Carso de la Salud, Fundación Mexicana para la Salud, México, DF, México. fknaul@funsalud.org.mx
Bustreo
Flavia
F
Ha
Eugene
E
Langer
Ana
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D017691:Caribbean Region; D003906:Developing Countries; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007843:Latin America; D008875:Middle Aged; D018456:Reproductive Medicine; D055815:Young Adult