Staying one step ahead of breast cancer, our talk with Europa Donna

“If you have the possibility to do a breast cancer screening, for free, offered by your country, why don’t you go?” This is a question that Marzia Zambon asks as she sits down for an interview. She is the Executive Director of Europa Donna, the largest European breast cancer patient advocacy organisation.

When it comes to breast cancer, knowledge is power. It’s knowing that 35% of cancer cases can be prevented through better lifestyle choices (eating healthier, exercising more), or through screening and early detection. Every 15 October, Europa Donna holds Breast Health Day, when it encourages women of all ages to take care of their health. 

When diagnosed with cancer, you need a plan: from finding the right treatment with specialists, to mental and physical support, to reintegrating back into work and social settings.

“You go back to your life, but it’s not really your life anymore. That is why guidance for people living with breast cancer is so important” explains Marzia. "There should be much more health literacy shared with a woman upon diagnosis and much more support thereafter".

The EU is acting through Europe’s beating cancer plan, a political commitment to turn the tide against cancer. The comprehensive initiative covers prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, and quality of life. For breast cancer, the plan intends to ensure that 90% of the recommended target groups have access to evidence-based and quality-assured screenings.

When asked where the EU could make the biggest difference to the lives of women living with breast cancer, Marzia didn’t hesitate. “Implementing Europe’s cancer plan. The paperwork is done, now it’s time for the actual legwork”.

We all have our role to play. From getting that screening, to ensuring patients are better informed and supported, to tackling the barriers and inequalities that still exist when it comes to breast cancer prevention and care. Together, we can stay one step ahead of breast cancer.

For more information

A cancer plan for Europe 

Cancer screening, diagnosis and care

Europa Donna member countries