Norway reports rising rates of breast-conserving cancer surgery

In Norway, medical advancements and research are highlighting new trends in cancer prevention and treatment. A significant increase in breast-conserving surgery has been reported, with 88.5 percent of eligible patients now undergoing the procedure, compared to 75 percent in 2014. Several health trusts, including Akershus University Hospital and Helse Nord-Trøndelag, are exceeding the national target of 90 percent. This approach allows for the removal of the tumor while preserving the breast, offering a less invasive option for many women.

Regarding colorectal cancer, a Swedish study involving nearly 380,000 participants suggests that regular stool screening can significantly reduce mortality risks. Those who completed the tests saw a 43 percent lower risk of dying from the disease. In Norway, participation rates in screening programs remain around 60 percent for women and just under 50 percent for men.

Additionally, new research from NTNU suggests that body size before puberty may influence breast cancer risk later in life, noting that girls with larger body sizes before puberty may face a lower risk, though the exact biological reasons remain unclear.