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Welcome to PinkRibbon Portugal

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Portugal, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.

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Cancer statistics
& survival rates

Breast Cancer
117 new cases per 100,000 women annually.
~6.5% of all female cancer deaths.
5-year survival: ~79% (2010–2015 data).
Cervical Cancer
15 cases per 100,000 women (above EU average of 13).
3 deaths per 100,000 (slightly below EU average).
5-year survival: ~68%.
Ovarian Cancer
Incidence and mortality data not specified.
5-year survival: ~40%.
Endometrial (Corpus Uteri) Cancer
Incidence and mortality data not specified.
5-year survival: ~79%.

### Systemic Challenges

High Cervical Cancer Incidence: Higher rates than the EU average highlight the need for improved screening and prevention.
Regional Disparities: Quality of cancer care varies, with rural areas facing greater challenges in accessing specialists.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity and smoking contribute to cancer risk, requiring focused public health strategies.
Limited Mortality Rate Improvement: Between 2011 and 2019, cancer mortality in Portugal declined only ~1%, compared to an EU average decline of 8%.

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Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    Champalimaud Foundation: Specializes in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, including rare cases such as male breast cancer and pregnancy-associated breast cancer. fchampalimaud.org
    Advanced Breast Cancer International Consensus Conference (ABC8): Held in Lisbon, develops international guidelines for managing advanced breast cancer.
    Lisbon Free Breast Cancer Screening: Partnership between Lisbon City Council and Champalimaud Foundation offering free screenings for women under 50.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro (LPCC): Leading non-profit providing prevention, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and patient education. ligacontracancro.pt
    Mama Help: Offers guidance, education, and support for breast cancer patients. mamahelp.pt
    Rosa Vida: Works to improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients and their families.
    ASPIC – Portuguese Association for Cancer Research: Supports cancer research and provides patient education. evitacancro.org

Accessing cancer screening and treatment

Where to get screened

These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)

Learn more

  • **Where to Get Screened**

    Portugal provides nationwide, publicly funded screening programs through primary care services:
    Breast Cancer: Women aged 50–69 are invited for free mammograms every two years.
    Cervical Cancer: Women aged 25–64 are encouraged to have cervical screening every five years.
    Colorectal Cancer: Adults aged 50–74 are recommended to undergo fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) or colonoscopy as advised.

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes. Eligible individuals receive invitation letters with scheduling details.**

    **What to Bring:**

    SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) user number
    ID (citizen card or passport)
    Previous medical records

    **Hotline Numbers:**

    SNS24 Health Line: 808 24 24 24

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

808 24 24 24
Typical Hours: 24/7 service available.

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Instituto Português de Oncologia (IPO): Specialized oncology hospitals in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra.
    Public Hospitals: Most have oncology departments offering multidisciplinary cancer care.

    **Government Coverage:**

    Portugal’s public healthcare system covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and palliative care.
    Co-payments may apply, varying with income and exemption status.

    **Note:
    Waiting times may occur. Patients should confirm timelines and discuss treatment plans with their providers.**

Financial support

  •

    **Government Schemes:**

    Basic health insurance covers most cancer treatments.
    “Hardship exemption” system caps annual out-of-pocket expenses relative to income.

    **Additional Support:**

    Patients can apply for help through health insurance providers or hospital social services.
    Patients are encouraged to speak with social workers or their healthcare provider about available options.

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