Breast cancer–the impact of conflict and displacement
2024
Breast Cancer and the Impact of Conflict
Editorial
Conclusion
Conflict and displacement significantly hinder access to breast cancer screening and treatment, leading to late-stage diagnoses and lower survival rates.
Supporting Evidence
- Breast cancer accounts for 11.6% of all cancers and is the most common type of female cancer.
- 82% of Afghan refugees in Türkiye were unaware of breast cancer warning signs.
- 87.2% of Syrian refugees over 25 had never undergone a breast examination.
- 30% of Syrian refugee women experienced breast cancer, with late-stage detection leading to a survival rate of 37.8%.
- 90% of Ukrainian refugees are women, and disruptions to care are expected to worsen screening uptake.
Takeaway
When there are wars and conflicts, it becomes really hard for people to get checked for breast cancer, which can make it much worse if they do get sick.
Limitations
The true extent of breast cancer incidence and mortality in conflict zones is difficult to measure due to ongoing disruptions.
Participant Demographics
Refugee populations, including Afghan and Syrian refugees, primarily women over the age of 25.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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