Introduction
Every October, the color pink floods streets, offices, and social media. It’s breast cancer awareness month, a symbol of struggle, prevention, and hope. However, behind the pink ribbon are statistics, disparities, and silences that still weigh heavily. One of the least visible: breast cancer is not exclusive to women; it also affects men, though in smaller numbers, and is often diagnosed later with more severe consequences.
The Global Reality of Breast Cancer
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with around 2.3 million new cases and over 685,000 deaths each year. In Mexico, the Secretary of Health reports more than 30,000 diagnoses annually, making it the leading cause of cancer death in women. However, it represents only between 0.5% to 1% of cases in men, yet its impact is devastating: one in every 100 men with breast cancer dies within five years of diagnosis, primarily due to delayed detection.
The Unseen Economic Burden
Breast cancer treatment can cost over a million pesos per patient, depending on the type of therapy, medications, and reconstructive surgeries. In public hospitals, much of this expense falls on oncology centers, but families bear a significant burden: transportation, complementary medications, special diets, prosthetics, lost income, and unpaid care.
The Psychological Impact
The psychological impact is another under-discussed chapter. For women, breast cancer can mean a radical body and identity transformation. The loss of a breast, hair fall, scars, or hormonal changes alter the relationship with femininity, desire, and self-esteem. For men, the shock often comes with feelings of embarrassment or disbelief: “How can I have a women’s disease?” This stigma can delay seeking help and exacerbate depression or isolation.
Addressing the Disparities
While medical advancements are promising, they need to translate into effective public policies. Prevention requires investment, sustained, and accessible campaigns, not just seasonal advertisements. A holistic view of breast cancer is needed, integrating medical, economic, and emotional dimensions.
The Role of Businesses
Companies can play a crucial role by promoting preventive check-ups, offering medical leave for appointments, and supporting employees undergoing treatment. In countries like the UK and Canada, companies already implement psychological support and reintegration programs for survivors. In Mexico, such initiatives are still rare.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who is affected by breast cancer? A: While it’s more common in women, men can also develop breast cancer, though less frequently.
- Q: Why is breast cancer in men often diagnosed later? A: Lack of awareness and ignorance about male breast cancer symptoms lead to delayed diagnosis.
- Q: What are the economic implications of breast cancer? A: The treatment cost can exceed a million pesos, with significant financial burden on families for transportation, medications, and lost income.
- Q: How does breast cancer affect mental health? A: It can lead to significant psychological impact, including changes in body image and identity for both women and men.
- Q: What can be done to address these disparities? A: Effective public policies, including sustained awareness campaigns and holistic support systems, are crucial.
