Breast cancer incidence and mortality among women in Latin America: A Systematic Review of Epidemiological Trends (2015–2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among women worldwide and represents a major public health concern in Latin America. Despite advances in early detection and treatment, significant disparities persist among countries regarding incidence, mortality, and access to healthcare services. Understanding regional epidemiological patterns is essential to guide cancer control strategies and improve outcomes for women. Methods: A systematic review without meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and methodological recommendations from the EQUATOR Network. The research question was structured using the PICTOS framework. A comprehensive literature search was performed across three electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and LILACS. Studies published between January 2015 and December 2025 that evaluated epidemiological indicators of breast cancer among women in Latin America were included. The search strategy combined the descriptors “Breast Neoplasms,” “Breast Cancer,” “Epidemiology,” “Incidence,” “Mortality,” and “Latin America” using Boolean operators. A total of 715 records were identified. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 87 articles underwent full-text evaluation. Twenty-nine studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Results: Breast cancer was consistently identified as the most common malignancy among women in Latin America and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Age-standardized incidence rates ranged from approximately 40 to 95 cases per 100,000 women, while mortality rates varied between 10 and 25 deaths per 100,000 women. Several studies reported increasing incidence trends in the last decade, associated with an aging population and lifestyle changes. A high proportion of cases were diagnosed at advanced stages, often exceeding 40% of diagnoses. Conclusion: Breast cancer remains a major public health challenge in Latin America. Strengthening screening programs and expanding equitable access to diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce mortality and improve outcomes among women in the region.