Kurti: Over 53 percent of breast cancer cases detected in early stages

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that 53.4 percent of breast cancer cases registered in Kosovo during 2025 were identified in early stages, emphasizing periodic check-ups and timely diagnosis.

According to him, during the past year 601 new cases of this disease were recorded in the country. Of them, 592 cases were among women, while nine among men.

Speaking at the opening of the “Pink October” campaign, Kurti said investments in medical equipment and awareness-raising campaigns have contributed to improving early detection of breast cancer.

He called on women who are being treated, those who have completed treatment and all other women not to neglect check-ups. Kurti also thanked organizations that, through their daily work, support patients and their families.

The head of government explained that until 2022 most cases were detected in the third or fourth stage. Whereas in 2023 and 2024, as a result of increased diagnostic equipment and awareness campaigns carried out by the Ministry of Health in cooperation with non-governmental organizations, most cases were found in the first or second stage.

Kurti said the same development was observed during 2025 as well, when more than 53.4 percent of cases were diagnosed in early stages. He stressed that in these cases the chances for treatment and recovery are significantly higher, underscoring that concerns should not be ignored and check-ups should not be postponed.

Since 2023, mammography in the public health system has been offered free of charge. The Prime Minister announced that a new mammography device has been put into operation in Fushë-Kosovë.

Also, two new accelerators have been installed at the Oncology Clinic. One of them contains the CRAD system, which enables high-precision radiotherapy and, according to Kurti, is the only one of its kind in the region.

He said that, in addition to the mammography machine placed in Fushë-Kosovë, eight other digital devices are expected to arrive during this year, which will be distributed in municipalities of Kosovo where such equipment is currently lacking.

The opening event of “Pink October” was also attended by Kosovo’s acting President Albulena Haxhiu, who spoke about the importance of women paying attention to their health.

Haxhiu said many women neglect their personal needs because of caring for children, elderly parents, work and household duties. She stressed that self-care should not be seen as an action for which a woman should feel guilty.

The acting President called on women to seek help and support whenever they need it, while expressing gratitude to women who have overcome the disease and who share their experiences with others.

She stressed that women facing breast cancer have the right to receive treatment and help, and not to carry the burden of easing the weight of their illness for others.