The Croatian Cancer Registry

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Croatia. According to the Croatian Cancer Registry, 3,293 new cases were recorded in 2023, while 697 women died from the disease in 2024.

Regular Screening

Regular screening—including breast self-examination, mammography, and ultrasound—can detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment outcomes and survival rates are significantly better. Although it is most common in women over 50, breast cancer can also occur in younger women.

Increase Early Detection Rates

To address this major public health challenge, Croatia launched the National Breast Cancer Early Detection Programme in 2006. The programme aims to reduce breast cancer mortality by 25–30%, increase early detection rates, and improve patients’ quality of life. Women aged 49–70 are invited for a mammography screening every two years. More than 90% of breast cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early, with a five-year survival rate of 96%.

Eight Screening Cycles

Eight screening cycles have been completed and the ninth is ongoing. Around 150,000 mammograms are performed annually, with participation rates of about 70%. Screening has led to increased detection of early-stage breast cancer and contributed to a decline in breast cancer mortality in Croatia, alongside advances in diagnosis and treatment.