GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES ON BREAST CANCER: A PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGE IN LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES

Breast cancer is the leading malignancy among women worldwide and a major contributor to cancer-related mortality. While survival has improved in high-income countries due to organized screening, timely treatment, and strong health systems, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to face rising incidence and disproportionately high mortality. Women in LMICs frequently present with advanced disease, reflecting barriers such as limited access to screening and diagnostics, financial constraints, sociocultural factors, and weak healthcare infrastructure. This narrative review examines the public health challenges of breast cancer in LMICs, emphasizing the roles of early detection, health education, health system strengthening, and policy interventions. By highlighting integrated strategies tailored to resource-limited settings, the review underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to reduce disparities, improve survival outcomes, and advance equitable breast cancer control globally.