The screening circuit, which includes an appointment letter and a mammogram, has identified nearly 400 breast cancers in Anoia over the past two decades. This task is coordinated by the CSA's Technical Office, an initiative promoted by the Departament de Salut of the Generalitat de Catalunya.
Coinciding with World Breast Cancer Day on October 19th, the CSA reviews the progress of this service, which began its rollout with the Early Detection Program. The office manages the entire process, from appointments to coordination with healthcare professionals.
Women's participation is key to the program's success. In Anoia, the overall participation rate between 2006 and 2025 has been 78%, exceeding the Catalan average. On average, about 20 tumors are detected annually thanks to this initiative.
“"Participating in the screening program is important because it often allows the disease to be detected before symptoms appear, which improves the prognosis. Although the participation figures for the program in Anoia are good, we must continue to encourage women because early detection saves lives."
The program invites women aged between 50 and 69 to have a mammogram every two years. This examination can identify very small lesions, improving treatment and cure possibilities if the disease is detected in its early stages.
The Technical Office is responsible for identifying women to invite, organizing appointments, managing results, and processing necessary complementary tests, coordinating with healthcare services. In 2006, program management was handled by the Institut Català d'Oncologia, but the creation of the office at CSA allowed for faster and more localized care.
Over these two decades, there has been significant technological advancement with the transition from analog to digital mammography, yielding higher quality images. This evolution has been accompanied by the expertise of Radiology department professionals, including expert technicians and specialized radiologists.
The Departament de Salut reminds the public that early detection of breast cancer is crucial for more effective treatments. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Catalonia, with a five-year survival rate of 89.3%. The Department also urges maintaining healthy habits and provides further information on Canal Salut.
