🌟 World Cancer Day: The Importance of Prevention and Early Diagnosis 

On World Cancer Day, we reflect on the impact of this disease in Portugal and the urgent need for prevention and early diagnosis. The numbers are clear: fighting cancer requires a collective effort. 

 

📊 Key Indicators in Portugal 

Incidence and Mortality: 

• In 2022, Portugal recorded 677 new cancer cases per 100,000 men and 460 new cases per 100,000 women, with prostate, breast, colorectal, and lung cancers being the most common. 

• The age-standardized mortality rate was 226 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, slightly below the EU average (-4%). 

• Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Portugal, accounting for 23% of deaths in 2021. 

• The number of new cancer cases is expected to increase by 12% by 2030 and 20% by 2040, surpassing the EU average. 

Risk Factors: 

• Smoking: In 2019, 14% of the Portuguese population smoked daily, with a prevalence of 20% among men and 9% among women. 

• Alcohol consumption: In 2019, the average alcohol consumption was 10 liters per capita, and in 2020, 16 new cancer cases per 100,000 people were attributed to alcohol consumption. 

• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle: In 2022, 53% of Portuguese adults were overweight or obese, a figure slightly higher than the EU average (51%). 

 

🛡️ Prevention Measures 

💪 Screenings: 

• In 2022, breast cancer screening coverage reached 50% and cervical cancer screening 60%. However, colorectal cancer screening remains low at just 14%, with significant regional disparities. 

💉 HPV Vaccination: 

• Portugal has one of the highest HPV vaccination coverage rates in the EU, a key factor in preventing cancers associated with the human papillomavirus. 

🎯 Healthy Lifestyles: 

• Reducing tobacco and alcohol consumption 

• Balanced, fiber-rich diet 

• Regular physical activity 

 

📈 Challenges in Access to Treatment 

• Despite increased oncology resources, 50% of radiotherapy equipment has already exceeded its ideal lifespan, and there are also delays in drug reimbursement. 

• It is expected that the global cancer burden will represent 4.2% of healthcare expenditure between 2023 and 2050, highlighting the need to invest in prevention and effective treatment. 

Despite progress, inequalities in access to prevention and treatment remain a challenge. The fight against cancer is a global effort that requires everyone’s participation. Small changes in our habits can make a big difference. Together, let’s strengthen prevention and encourage early diagnosis!