Vision Zero Oncology aims to reduce breast cancer mortality

The Vision Zero Oncology association is working to reduce breast cancer mortality towards zero, as the disease remains the most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the European Union. In Germany, around 19,000 women die annually from breast cancer, and the association aims to unite those who want to change this.

At the Vision Zero Summit held in Berlin, discussions focused on strategies to achieve this goal. Author Nicole Staudinger, a breast cancer survivor herself, emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention, including regular self-examinations and prompt medical attention for concerning findings. She stressed that effective methods for early identification of changes are crucial.

Staudinger criticized healthcare communication, stating that patients are often inadequately supported. She cited instances where women with suspicious findings were dismissed with appointments months later, leading to fatalities. She argued that insensitive comments from doctors and lack of information have endangered patients' lives, while empathetic and clear communication is vital for maintaining hope.

Radiology Professor Christiane Kuhl highlighted challenges in early breast cancer detection through mammography. Particularly dense breast tissue can obscure tumors, and despite European recommendations for informing women about breast density, this practice is not consistently followed. This compromises mammography's reliability for at least one-third of women, potentially delaying treatment.