Article by Elise Jacquier , Human Rights Trainee
October is breast cancer awareness month. It is essential to understand that persons with disabilities are not only at higher risk of developing cancer but also of receiving a late diagnosis and treatment. This leads to a higher mortality rate than people without disabilities. Women with disabilities are no exception.
In Sweden, women with psychosocial disabilities who have breast cancer are generally diagnosed and treated once they reach a later stage of cancer, compared to other women with breast cancer. Data collected in Romania shows that women with physical impairments could not access tests for breast cancer and cervical cancer, as examination tables cannot be adjusted to the correct height, and the equipment for mammography cannot be used by those who cannot stand.
In September, the Commission published a proposal for a new approach to cancer screening. In there, it states that the needs of people with disabilities for special assistance or adapted clinical facilities should be duly taken into account.
It is crucial to implement a more inclusive plan concerning cancer screening and treatment of women with disabilities all across the European Union. That is the stand taken by EDF, which published recommendations on the matter in February 2022.