Urgent: International Congress Highlights Breast Cancer Crisis in Mexico – New Strategies for Early Detection & Patient Care
Mexico City – A critical gathering of researchers and activists concluded today, shedding light on the escalating breast cancer crisis in Mexico and charting a course for more effective prevention, treatment, and patient support. The V International Congress “My Fight is Pink,” hosted by the UNAM Faculty of Medicine and the IMSS Foundation, underscored the urgent need for improved access to screening, a shift in societal narratives surrounding the disease, and a more compassionate, holistic approach to care.
Alarming Statistics Demand Action
The congress opened with sobering statistics: preliminary figures for 2023 report 8,034 deaths from breast cancer in individuals aged 20 and over, with women accounting for 99.5% of those cases. Dr. Yuriria Alejandra Rodríguez Martínez, head of the Gender Equality Program at the Faculty of Medicine, emphasized that this congress isn’t merely symbolic; it’s a “commitment to life” and a call to strengthen medical training, research, and address barriers to access. This is a significant public health concern, demanding immediate and sustained attention.
Beyond Pink Ribbons: A Call for Year-Round Awareness
A powerful voice emerged from the congress in the form of Sandra Monroy Mandujano, creator of the impactful @jodetecancer project and author of the book of the same name. Monroy challenged the often-sanitized portrayal of breast cancer, arguing that it’s “nothing rosy” and requires awareness far beyond Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her presentation, “Fuck you, Cancer: Oncological Activism,” sparked a vital conversation about the emotional toll of “war” language used in cancer discourse and the harmful “aesthetic violence” of societal pressure for immediate breast reconstruction, which can overshadow the patient’s overall health and well-being. Monroy’s advocacy for normalizing diverse bodies and prioritizing life over appearance resonated deeply with attendees.
Innovative Approaches to Early Detection & Prevention
The congress showcased cutting-edge advancements in early detection. Dr. Allyson Penin highlighted the alarming statistic that a breast cancer is detected globally every 13-14 seconds, while emphasizing the importance of self-examination. Beyond traditional mammography – which remains the “gold standard” in Mexico, despite diagnostic delays of up to 7 months due to systemic barriers – speakers like Dr. Allyson Penin presented promising non-invasive methods like electroimpedance mammography. The IMSS promotes biannual screening mammograms for women over 40, but experts stressed the need for national strategies to prioritize early diagnosis and improve survival rates.
The Mind-Body Connection & Workplace Wellness
Recognizing that health extends beyond the physical, Dr. Jesús R. Cotero, President of CEN and Secretary of SIMESA, addressed the crucial link between mental health in the workplace and disease development. He highlighted the importance of NOM-035, a Mexican standard for psychosocial risks in the workplace, demonstrating a growing understanding of the need for a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer prevention that incorporates occupational health. This holistic perspective extended to discussions on nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and supplementation as complementary strategies under medical supervision.
Oncofertility & Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Daniel Pascal Ponton brought a unique perspective to the conversation, linking reproductive biology with oncofertility – the preservation of fertility in cancer patients. He emphasized that care is a “puzzle” with many pieces, advocating for the integration of fertility preservation strategies into oncology treatment plans. A recurring theme throughout the congress was the need to shift the focus to the individual needs of patients, prioritizing empathy and equitable access to treatments. The importance of collaboration between specialties and levels of care was repeatedly emphasized.
The V International Congress “My Fight is Pink” wasn’t just a conference; it was a powerful call to action. From groundbreaking research to passionate advocacy, the event underscored the urgency of addressing the breast cancer crisis in Mexico with a comprehensive, compassionate, and equitable approach. The conversations sparked here will undoubtedly shape the future of breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care, offering hope for a future where more lives are saved and more patients receive the support they deserve. Stay informed about the latest developments in breast cancer research and advocacy at archyde.com/health.
