New data from the Global Cancer Observatory estimates that nearly 7,700 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in Portugal in 2024, averaging 21 new cases per day. The Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPCC) is using the 'Novembro Azul' (Blue November) awareness month to encourage men between 50 and 70 years old to consult their doctors about risk factors and early diagnosis.
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Oncologist Helena Gervásio explains that genomic tests can identify patients with certain breast cancer profiles who may safely forgo chemotherapy in favor of less aggressive treatment options.
The Portuguese Association for the Study of the Liver (APEF) launched a national awareness campaign, "A Prevenção faz o Fígado", throughout October to highlight the importance of early detection and risk reduction. The campaign emphasizes avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise, vaccinating against Hepatitis B, and undergoing recommended semi-annual abdominal ultrasounds for those in high-risk groups with pre-existing liver conditions.
Portugal registered 51 cases of Mpox in September, making it the third highest in Europe according to the ECDC report, which totals 345 European cases for the period. Over the last 12 months, Portugal recorded 342 cases out of 2,690 in Europe, behind Spain and Germany. Over 90% of infections occurred in men who have sex with men, and over 70% of patients were unvaccinated. The ECDC recommends preventative and post-exposure vaccination strategies for risk groups.