Breast cancer screening advocacy in Europe

Medical professionals across Central and Eastern Europe are emphasizing the necessity of early breast cancer detection through regular screening.

In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, experts have highlighted that while screening improves survival rates, current participation in the Czech Republic is approximately 60%, below the 70% target required for maximum public health benefit. Doctors in these regions have specifically addressed misconceptions regarding diagnostic tools, noting that ultrasound cannot replace mammography for primary screening because mammography is uniquely capable of detecting microcalcifications. Experts suggest ultrasound should be used as a complementary tool rather than a substitute.

In Bulgaria, specialists in Plovdiv have reinforced these calls for prevention during breast cancer awareness month. Medical professionals noted that diagnostic approaches must be tailored to individual factors such as age and breast tissue density. While mammography is recommended every two years for women aged 40 to 69, doctors suggest that ultrasound, tomosynthesis, or MRI may be necessary for younger women, those with dense tissue, or high-risk patients.