Global campaign highlights early detection, timely diagnosis and access to quality treatment for all women.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for stronger action to improve breast cancer awareness, promote early detection and ensure equitable access to timely diagnosis and quality treatment as the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month throughout October 2026.
Under the theme “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” WHO is highlighting the different experiences of people affected by breast cancer and emphasising that everyone deserves compassionate care, support and access to essential health services, regardless of where they live or their financial circumstances.
According to WHO estimates, approximately 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide in 2024, while around 694,000 women died from the disease. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women globally, affecting countries across all income levels.
WHO has stressed the importance of recognising possible warning signs, including a lump or thickening in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, skin or nipple changes, and unusual or bloody nipple discharge. People who notice unusual changes are encouraged to seek medical advice promptly.
The organisation has also highlighted major inequalities in breast cancer survival, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment can be limited. WHO has called on governments, healthcare professionals, organisations and communities to work together to remove barriers to care and strengthen breast cancer services.
Through its Global Breast Cancer Initiative, WHO aims to increase early diagnosis, ensure timely diagnosis following the presentation of symptoms, and improve access to complete recommended treatment. Its targets include diagnosing at least 60 per cent of invasive breast cancers at an early stage, achieving diagnosis within 60 days of the first presentation of symptoms, and ensuring that at least 80 per cent of people diagnosed with breast cancer receive the recommended complete treatment.
WHO has urged individuals and communities to share reliable information, healthcare professionals to support early detection and quality care, and governments and partner organisations to invest in accessible cancer services.
The organisation emphasised that raising awareness must be accompanied by practical action to improve diagnosis, treatment and support, ensuring that no one faces breast cancer without access to the care they need.
Closing the gaps in breast cancer care
The WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) brings countries and partners together to reduce inequalities in breast cancer outcomes and save lives.
The initiative aims to achieve three targets:
- 60% of invasive breast cancers are diagnosed at stage I or II
- 60 days from the first detection or presentation of symptoms at health facility to getting a diagnosis
- 80% of people diagnosed with breast cancer receive the recommended complete treatment
Achieving these targets requires action across the cancer care pathway – from health promotion and early detection to timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and supportive care.
Calls to Action
Everyone has a role to play in making breast cancer care more accessible and equitable.
- Individuals and communities can share trusted information and help raise awareness.
- Health professionals can support early detection, timely diagnosis and high-quality care.
- Organizations and partners can amplify campaign messages and support local and national action.
- Countries and health systems can strengthen breast cancer services and work towards the GBCI targets.