The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are 2,088,849 new (IARC-2019) cases of breast cancer every year worldwide, making it the most common type among women. This represents 25% of female cancer cases. The incidence of breast cancer varies between continents and countries. It is highest in the United States of America, Western and Northern Europe; intermediate in Southern and Eastern Europe, as well as in South America; and lowest in Asia. However, from 2000 to 2012 there was an increase in the number of cases in Asian countries, traditionally with a low incidence of breast cancer. This is credited to two elements: the change in the reproductive pattern and the transition towards the Western lifestyle, evident in these urban centers, especially in Japan, China and Singapore.

Data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA) reveal significant heterogeneity in the incidence of breast cancer in the Brazilian female population. The number of new cases of breast cancer expected in Brazil for each year of the 2020-2021 biennium is 66,000 new cases of breast cancer, with an estimated risk of 61 cases per 100,000 women. The 2009 “Amazona” study showed that 30% of breast cancers were diagnosed at advanced stages.

In most developed countries, the five-year survival increased to 85% during the period 2005 to 2009. On the other hand, the five-year survival is less than 70% in low- and middle-income countries.

We believe that the clarification and dissemination of knowledge are the main instruments to face this great challenge.