Breast cancer screening in developing countries

Diagnosing breast cancer early and efficiently is a critical component of any strategy aimed at decreasing breast cancer mortality in developing countries. In this chapter, I evaluate the evidence behind screening strategies and its controversies. The effect of breast-cancer screening has never been formally evaluated in developing countries, and data from the major screening trials need to be viewed in this context. Screening asymptomatic women by means of breast self-examination, clinical examination or mammography can play a significant role in decreasing breast-cancer mortality in developing countries. Major programmes should not be implemented, however, until adequate diagnostic and therapeutic facilities are in place. The most fundamental interventions in early detection, diagnosis, surgery, radiation therapy, and drug therapy must be integrated, organised and resourced appropriately within existing healthcare structures.