Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Brazil and worldwide. Despite advances in medicine, early diagnosis is still the best way to increase the chances of a cure. However, access to tests remains a challenge for many people in situations of social vulnerability.

This is the scenario in which Américas Amigas operates: bringing health care, free of charge, with quality and welcome.

In the first half of 2025, the two carts managed by the Association toured four municipalities in the state of São Paulo - São Paulo, Hortolândia, Diadema and Potim - and one municipality in Minas Gerais - Patrocínio - offering mammography tests, humanized care and quality information.

At every stop, a mission: to ensure that more people have access to early detection of breast cancer. With every visit, a real opportunity to save lives.

CEU Alvarenga: care that transforms lives

The first initiative of the semester took place in March, at CEU Alvarenga, located on the south side of São Paulo. During the action, 349 people were seen, resulting in 1,396 consultations carried out by the mobile unit. In addition, 15 suspected cases were identified and entered into the Américas Amigas Patient Navigation Program for diagnostic investigation, three of which had a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer.

Each test represents an opportunity for early diagnosis - and therefore a real chance of a cure. We saw stories of strength, listening and acceptance up close.

Hortolândia: more access to early detection

In April, the mobile unit arrived in Hortolândia, in the northwestern region of the state of São Paulo, offering free and humanized care to the population. In all, 353 people were assisted, resulting in 1,412 consultations. At the end of the initiative, 23 suspected cases were identified and referred for follow-up with specialists - of these, three were confirmed as cases of breast cancer.

The action reinforced how access to health care is still a challenge for many women - and how prevention can be the decisive factor between life and death.

Diadema: mobilization for women's health

In May, the mobile unit was in Diadema, in the Greater ABC region, in an action carried out in partnership with the Patrocínio Cancer Hospital (MG). With the support of the City Hall and the Municipal Health Department, 353 women were assisted, resulting in 1,412 consultations. During the initiative, four suspected cases were identified and three of them have already been confirmed as having breast cancer.

Every gesture of care showed that, with the right information and structure, lives can be saved every day.

Potim: hope on wheels in the Paraíba Valley

Also in May, it was Potim's turn, in the Paraíba Valley, to receive the Américas Amigas mobile unit, bringing access to health and prevention to the region. In all, 413 women were assisted, totaling 1,780 visits. During the action, four suspected cases of breast cancer were identified - two of them already confirmed.

More than exams, the action provided a welcome and active listening - revealing that early diagnosis begins with empathy and the willingness to look at others with attention and respect.

Results that impact lives

1,468 people assisted
6,000 visits
46 suspected cases referred for investigation (navigated)
9 confirmed cases of breast cancer

Among the services provided were 1,621 mammograms and mammogram supplements. By reaching out to different territories, the mobile unit's actions are geared towards comprehensive care, promoting access to quality exams, carried out efficiently. Each initiative represents not just numbers, but the creation of bonds, trust and the strengthening of the local health network. These are lives cared for with responsibility, affection and respect.

With you, we can go even further

Américas Amigas remains steadfast in its commitment to bringing early diagnosis to those who need it most, overcoming geographical and social barriers.

All this is only possible thanks to the support of donors, partners and volunteers who believe in our cause.