Doctor A. Česas on cancer, which affects both 50-year-olds and 80-year-olds: it used to seem completely impossible
Doctor Alvydas Česas emphasizes the importance of earlier breast cancer detection, noting increased participation in screening programs among younger women.
In a recent discussion on "Žinių radijo" show "Ekspertai pataria", Doctor Alvydas Česas, head of the Oncology and Hematology Clinic at Klaipėdos University Hospital, highlighted the growing trend of breast cancer diagnoses among younger women, though he clarified that there is no explosion in incidence. He pointed to Western studies showing that earlier screening programs significantly benefit public health, allowing for preventive measures that could reduce cancer diagnoses in younger women.
Dr. Česas noted a positive shift in patient behavior, revealing that screening turnout has improved from one in five women responding to invitations to two in four women attending assessments. This change is largely attributed to increased awareness and engagement among women aged 45 and older, who are more active on social media and are thus better informed about their health needs. The doctor expressed optimism that with continued effort, participation in screening programs among women could rise to between 75-85%.
The increment in screening participation rates represents a crucial step in public health strategies against breast cancer, particularly in Lithuania. Dr. Česas's insights underscore the importance of addressing not only the medical aspects of cancer treatment but also the role of community awareness and education in combating the disease. As outreach efforts continue, the hope is to further reduce the incidence of advanced cancer through proactive health checks and improved health literacy among women.