Health

Brazil allocates over BRL 100 million to breast reconstruction

Priority will be given to women submitted to total mastectomy

Paula Laboissière

Published on 15/02/2023 - 08:22

Agência Brasil - Brasília

Laboratórios de Microbiologia e Hematologia, Mamografia e Raio X
HRAN - Hospital Regional da Asa Norte — © Rodrigo Nunes/MS

Brazil’s Ministry of Health introduced on Tuesday (Feb. 14) an exceptional strategy to expand access to breast reconstruction for women with breast cancer using the country’s national public health care system SUS. Over BRL 100 million will be allocated to all Brazilian states and the Federal District.

According to the ministry, women diagnosed with breast cancer who have undergone total mastectomy will be able to apply for the surgery. Data from the ministry indicate that more than 20 thousand women are waiting in line for the procedure in the public hospital network.

The strategy of expanding the surgeries will last 24 months. The Health Ministry will be in charge of following up and monitoring the whole process and the results obtained, as well as establishing the requirements and the form of participation of public hospitals.