Gap analysis of breast cancer care at tertiary facilities in Armenia

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality among women globally. Armenia has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the world, with an age standardized mortality-to-incidence ratio of 0.41, indicating that two in five breast cancer patients die from the disease. The factors contributing to this disproportionate mortality burden are poorly understood. The present study utilized a validated survey across four high-capacity cancer facilities to produce a national gap analysis of breast cancer care in Armenia. We find that the tertiary facilities surveyed broadly possess the fundamental technological and personnel resources required for modern breast cancer care; however, it is apparent that challenges exist with early detection, timely diagnosis, and successful treatment. Based on these findings, policy considerations could prioritize breast cancer mortality reduction through early detection, establishment of a cancer registry, streamlining cancer care, and reducing the financial burden of care on patients.