Cancer awareness and early detection in Romania

Medical experts in Romania are emphasizing the critical importance of early diagnosis for breast and colorectal cancers to improve survival rates.

Breast cancer remains the most frequent oncological diagnosis for women in Romania, with approximately 12,700 new cases recorded annually. While survival rates reach 95-99% when detected in early stages, specialists warn that symptoms are not always limited to visible lumps. Potential warning signs include swelling in the breast or armpit, skin dimpling, nipple inversion, unusual discharge, or persistent rashes.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality in the country, causing over 6,000 deaths and 13,000 diagnoses each year. Medical professionals note that many deaths are linked to late-stage diagnosis. Experts recommend colonoscopies starting between ages 45 and 50 to identify and remove benign polyps before they become malignant, especially for those with family histories or symptoms such as digestive bleeding and unexplained weight loss.