IARC commemorates Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024 – IARC

October 1, 2024

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer type among women worldwide and the most common cause of cancer death in women. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is pursuing a multipronged approach to reducing the number of new breast cancer cases and saving the lives of women who develop breast cancer. IARC scientists are collaborating with IARC's international partners and the World Health Organization (WHO) to uncover the causes of breast cancer, understand how it progresses after onset, and adapt it to local health systems. We are working to introduce and improve breast cancer screening programs. and to accurately document the burden of breast cancer around the world.

In 2022, approximately 2.3 million people will be newly diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 665,000 people will die from breast cancer worldwide. Only one in five new infections (20.2%) occurred in countries with a medium or low Human Development Index (HDI). However, more than one in three deaths (33.8%) occurred in these countries. This disparity reflects the many burdens women face when accessing breast cancer information and care.

Through Breast Cancer Awareness Month, IARC aims to collect the data needed to address disparities, understand their mechanisms, ensure fewer women and their families suffer as a result of breast cancer, and reduce the number of women who suffer from breast cancer. We will highlight some of the projects led by scientists at This disease is the fourth leading cause of cancer death overall.

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