Breast Cancer: Scientific Advances Change Historic Fight

Octobera month in which the main character is a pink ribbon. The goal is clear: to raise awareness and thought about a disease that can affect all women. For some it is a constant threat; for others it is a daily battle. However, more than we think they overcome it.

Read also: Key factors that increase the chances of success in breast cancer treatment

Prevention, diagnosis and treatment

This calendar sheet reminds us of the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, e.g. mammography, breast self-examination, consultation with a gynecologist– and fundamentally appropriate treatment. Despite advances in detection and treatment, the disease remains a serious problem, especially in regions and populations that lack adequate access to health care. It is access to cancer treatment in Latin America that is characterized by significant differences. Factors such as health insurance and lack of diagnostic or preventative services They profoundly influence clinical outcomes, affecting patient survival and quality of life.

It is essential that scientists, medical professionals, political leaders and society at large pay due attention to this issue, without forgetting, of course, other diseases. As is known, prevention and early diagnosis They are a priority in breast cancer, but effective treatment and ongoing monitoring are equally important. Without an approach that covers all these stages, the efforts of health researchers will be insufficient.

It is vital to consider scientific evidence to develop public health policies to improve quality of life of those looking at breast cancer. In the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics (Leloir Institute Foundation), which is part of the Latin American Cancer Research Network (LACRN) and the Breast Cancer Diversity Research Network (REDICAM), we have an interdisciplinary team – biochemists, bioinformaticians, oncologists, pathologists. , mastologists, sociologists and others who are studying breast cancer in Hispanic women who have been or are being treated in public hospitals in our region, with questions of survival, response to treatment and access to adequate treatment, as well as molecular aspects.

Clinical and molecular characterization of breast cancer in Latin America, like any other cancer, is essential to guide recommendations, optimize treatment decisions, and improve clinical outcomes. Facilitating the participation of these patients in clinical trials, sharing knowledge between clinicians and scientists, and ensuring that policymakers pay attention to these needs are important aspects of developing effective strategies.

October, an important month

This month works like call to action. Every woman, every life matters; and any efforts to improve detection, treatment and prevention can make a difference. Thanks to science around the world and many years of efforts by Argentine science, progress in understanding this disease has been and remains important to provide better diagnosis and treatment for patients.

Read also: In Argentina, about 19 thousand new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed annually

Small or large achievements not only reflect progress in investigationbut also obligation and a desire on the part of researchers to contribute to improving the lives of those affected by the disease.