GEICAM gives a tough fight against breast cancer

Introduction

October is the month for raising awareness about the the reality of breast cancer and on the ihe importance of clinical research to continue improving the survival and quality of life of those affected. It is estimated that, in Spain, 1 in 8 women is affected. will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

At Axazure we are committed to the research of this disease and that is why we want to tell you about the Axazure Group. GEICAM de Investigación en Cáncer de Mama), an organisation that hits hard at this disease in Spain. We invite you to discover who they are, what they do and why their work is essential.

What is GEICAM?

**GEICAM** is not just a name, it is a commitment. It is a non-profit organisation that leads academic breast cancer research in Spain. But what makes GEICAM so special?

An Army of Experts

Behind GEICAM is an impressive team of more than 900 breast cancer experts, distributed in more than 200 centres throughout Spain. These professionals are the soldiers on the front line of the battle against breast cancer. Every day, they wake up with a clear objective: to improve the lives of those fighting this disease.

Heart Research

Its focus encompasses clinical, epidemiological and translational research. But what does this really mean?

– **Clinical Research**: GEICAM is dedicated to devising and developing clinical trials The new study is fundamental for advancing knowledge and therefore the treatment, survival and quality of life of people with breast cancer.

– **Epidemiological Research**: This type of research analyses patterns and risk factors, which helps specialists to understand the factors that increase the risk of developing this disease and allows them to understand the situation of breast cancer in Spain with a view to improving patient management and optimising healthcare resources.

– **Translational Research**: Here, laboratory science, through biological samples, impacts on a direct application in the clinic. GEICAM develops projects aimed at identifying new therapeutic approaches adapted to each type of tumour, which are increasingly effective in specific populations. This is commonly referred to as personalised medicine.

Beyond Medicine

The fight against breast cancer is not limited to hospital wards and laboratories. They are also concerned with continuing medical education and outreach.

Continuing Medical Education

Medicine is advancing by leaps and bounds, and it is essential that healthcare professionals keep up to date with the latest developments. GEICAM provides them with the necessary training to enable them to offer the best possible care to patients.

Dissemination for Empowerment

Knowledge is power. The organisation strives to provide clear and accurate information to people affected by breast cancer. Knowledge about treatments and their side effects is essential to make informed decisions. In addition, they actively encourage participation in clinical trials, opening the door to innovative therapies.

Statistics that concern us

According to the latest data collected by the European Cancer Information System (ECIS), a total of 34,088 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in Spain in 2020, with this type of tumour being the most common among women in our country ahead of colorectal, uterine, lung and ovarian cancer.

**Thirty per cent of cancers diagnosed in women originate in the breast**, underlining the importance of early detection and continued research.

What Does the Future Hold?

Ereast cancer is already the most commonly diagnosed tumour in the world, surpassing lung cancer for the first time, according to data published in 2021 by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In terms of incidence rate, an estimated 132 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This type of tumour usually appears between the ages of 35 and 80, although the 45-65 age bracket is the one with the highest incidence, as this is the time when hormonal changes occur in the peri- and post-menopausal periods, an incidence curve that continues to increase as women get older.

The incidence of cancer, including breast cancer, has experienced in recent years – and is expected to continue to experience – continual growth, which can be explained by various factors in addition to population growth. These include advances in techniques for the early detection of different tumours and the increase in life expectancy.

Risk factors Risk factors.

The increase in the incidence of breast cancer is due to multiple factors. Although certain risk factors cannot be modified, such as gender (the vast majority of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women), age or genetic predisposition, incorporating a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Not smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, following a Mediterranean diet, exercising, avoiding being overweight and, if you have children, breastfeeding are recommendations to reduce the risk of breast cancer. It is also important to participate in the breast cancer early detection programmes of the autonomous communities by means of mammograms every two years between the ages of 50 and 69. And if there is a family history of breast cancer, it is advisable to consult a doctor to assess whether any further action is necessary.

Breast Cancer in Men.

Although breast cancer is the most common tumour in women, it also affects men. For every 100 breast cancers in women, one is diagnosed in men. In 15-20% of cases diagnosed in men, there is a family history that allows a diagnosis of hereditary cancer.

Collaborate with GEICAM

¿Do you want to join this cause? GEICAM offers different initiatives throughout the year to collaborate. In this link you can contribute to their work. Your support can make a difference to the lives of those fighting breast cancer.

In a world where breast cancer affects so many lives, GEICAM stands as a beacon of hope and knowledge. Its dedication to research, education and outreach is admirable. Now that you know about their work, we invite you to be part of this fight. Together, we can make a difference and move closer to a future without fear of breast cancer.

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