Challenges of early diagnosis of breast cancer in low-income populations.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer represents a major public health challenge, especially in low-income countries, where early diagnosis is still limited. Sociocultural, economic, and structural barriers hinder women's access to screening and treatment services. Fear, misinformation, and the burden of family responsibilities contribute to delayed care-seeking. Given this scenario, accessible strategies such as clinical breast examinations, self-examination, and educational initiatives are essential to promote equity and improve disease outcomes. OBJECTIVES: To review and synthesize current evidence on breast cancer diagnosis in low-income women, focusing on the challenges that hinder timely and equitable access to detection and diagnostic confirmation services. METHODOLOGY: This study consists of a literature review conducted between March and July 2025. The PubMed database was used. The inclusion criteria were: articles in English and Portuguese; published between 2019 and 2024. RESULTS: Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignant neoplasm among women and the leading cause of cancer death in more than 100 countries. Although access to treatment and prevention is a priority in developed countries, women in socially vulnerable situations face higher mortality rates, late diagnosis, and shorter survival rates. Socioeconomic inequality directly impacts prognosis, with significant differences between public and private systems, both in terms of the stage of diagnosis and the quality of treatment provided. CONCLUSION: Breast cancer poses a serious public health challenge in low-income countries, where late diagnosis and high mortality reflect structural and social barriers. Accessible strategies, such as clinical examinations and educational initiatives, have advanced, but inequalities persist. Expanding access, training professionals, and adapting programs to local realities are essential steps to ensure equity in cancer screening and care.