BREAST CANCER SCREENING IN ROMANIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR EARLY DETECTION

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, surpassing lung cancer.
• Romania faces a significant breast cancer mortality rate despite low incidence, with survival rates lower than Western Europe.
• Low mammography screening participation (9% in 2020) is a key factor in Romania's disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate factors influencing breast cancer screening participation in Romania.
• To identify barriers hindering effective screening among eligible women, particularly vulnerable populations.
• To provide insights for improving breast cancer screening uptake and outcomes in Romania.

Main Methods:

• A three-year study conducted at the "Alessandrescu Rusescu" National Institute for Mother and Child Health.
• Involved a cohort of 1,705 patients.
• Analysis focused on understanding screening participation rates and associated challenges.

Main Results:

• Romanian women's mammography screening participation is critically low (9%) compared to the European average (60%).
• Barriers such as low health literacy, lack of awareness, and socio-economic factors significantly impede screening.
• Disparities in breast cancer outcomes are evident between Romania and Western European countries.

Conclusions:

• Urgent interventions are needed to increase breast cancer screening participation in Romania.
• Addressing identified barriers is crucial for improving early detection and survival rates.
• Targeted strategies are essential to reach vulnerable populations and reduce health inequalities.