The president of the Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPCC) announced plans to extend breast cancer screening to women aged 45 and older. This initiative, expected to commence in the coming days, follows an upcoming meeting with the Executive Directorate of the National Health Service.
In early December 2024, the Directorate-General for Health updated the guidelines for population-based breast cancer screening. Previously targeting women between 50 and 69 years old, the age range now includes those aged 45 to 74, aligning with European Union recommendations.
“This expansion will be gradual, taking about two years to implement. Within this timeframe, we aim to achieve a 70% participation rate, a level considered excellent across Europe,” stated Vítor Veloso.
The LPCC projects that this expanded screening will cover at least 1.5 million women. While acknowledging the significant effort required, Veloso emphasized the potential to diagnose cancers at early stages, thereby increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved quality of life.
“This practically doubles our current efforts. It will take two years, but we are optimistic about achieving success,” he added, noting that the expansion will entail an investment of 10 million euros.
These funds are allocated for state-of-the-art equipment, including mammography machines and mobile mammography units, as well as hiring qualified diagnostic technicians.
Screening is conducted through free mammograms, with direct invitations sent to women’s registered home addresses at their health centers. Additionally, reminder SMS messages will provide details about the exam’s location, date, and time.
LPCC reports that in Portugal, approximately 9,000 new breast cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with more than 2,000 deaths. However, early detection through screening can catch lesions before symptoms arise, increasing treatment effectiveness and improving prognosis,” highlighted the league.
