One of the most common cancers in women leading to death is breast cancer. The main reason for poor treatment results in Poland is inadequate response to the population-based early detection screening program for breast cancer. Women tend to ignore the initial symptoms, neglect breast self-examinations, and skip regular screening tests, which are crucial for preventing the disease, which is associated with insufficient education on the topic and the deficiency of visible promotional campaigns aimed at encouraging women to undergo regular preventive examinations. Local pharmacies, which are often visited by patients, are a good place to start working on breast cancer prevention. Pharmacists, as trusted health professionals, play a significant role in educating their patients about breast cancer and encouraging women to perform breast self-examinations and undergo mammograms regularly. The aim of this article is to review studies focusing on promotional campaigns for breast cancer awareness that are currently in place or ready to be implemented in pharmacies in many countries. Additionally, we will focus on how pharmacists can educate patients and encourage them to undergo screening tests to prevent breast cancer. This is such a crucial aspect because prevention of cancer is as important as treatment.
Breast Cancer; Pharmaceutical Intervention; Pharmacist; Quality Of Life; Patient Education; Adherence ; Community Pharmacy, Breast Cancer Prevention, Health Promotion, Screening Test
Breast cancer is a global health issue and the most common cancer among women worldwide, accounting for a significant proportion of cancer-related deaths. It occurs when the normal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably and form a lump or tumor. If not detected and treated in time, it may spread to other parts of the body such as the lungs, bones, or liver. In India, the incidence of breast cancer has been steadily increasing due to factors such as urbanization, lifestyle changes, delayed childbirth, and lack of awareness about screening methods. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early detection through screening programs like mammography and breast self-examination can significantly improve survival rates. Despite medical advancements, social stigma and fear associated with cancer often prevent women from seeking timely help. Therefore, awareness and education play a crucial role in improving public understanding of breast cancer. Pharmacists, being easily accessible healthcare professionals, can bridge this gap by providing counseling, promoting self-examination awareness, and guiding patients on available treatment options. The role of the pharmacist extends beyond dispensing medications — they act as educators, advisors, and health promoters in the fight against breast cancer. Through community outreach programs, awareness campaigns, and patient education, pharmacists can contribute significantly to reducing the burden of this disease.
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Shital Boraste
Corresponding author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Dr. Ashwini Shewale
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Rutuja Solase
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Kajal Algur
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Deepika Choudhary
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Arti Mote
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Kajal Mandal
Co-author
Shankarrao Ursal College of Pharmacy (Diploma), Kharadi, Pune-14
Shital Boraste*, Dr. Ashwini Shewale, Rutuja Solase, Kajal Algur, Deepika Choudhary, Arti Mote, Kajal Mandal, Role of Pharmacist in Awareness and Management of Breast Cancer, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2025, 2 (12), 353-360. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18042272
10.5281/zenodo.18042272