Cancer in Uruguay: Statistics, Prevention & Latest Advances
Approximately 14,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed annually in Uruguay, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers. This figure, shared in connection with World Cancer Day, highlights the significant health challenge cancer presents to the nation. The Hospital de Clínicas recently held a day dedicated to the early diagnosis of cancers affecting the mouth, throat, and vocal cords, cancers which are increasingly seen in younger individuals.
The Scope of Cancer in Uruguay
Around 8,000 people in Uruguay die from cancer each year, making it the leading cause of death for those over 70. The most common cancers diagnosed in women are breast, colorectal, lung, and cervical, while men are most often diagnosed with prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers.
Prevention and Early Detection
According to experts, 40% of cancer cases are potentially preventable by addressing risk factors. Early detection could prevent up to one-third of cancer-related deaths. Preventative measures include avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, engaging in regular physical activity, protecting oneself from direct sun exposure, and vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B.
Secondary prevention focuses on early detection, when treatment is often most effective. Uruguay offers screening programs including mammography starting at age 40, HPV and Pap tests beginning at age 25, and fecal occult blood tests for both men and women starting around age 50.
Advancements in Diagnostic Technology
The Centro Uruguayo de Imagenología Molecular (Cudim) plays a key role in cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive care. Over the past decade, the use of PET-CT scans – a non-invasive technology combining metabolic and anatomical imaging using radioactive substances – has grown significantly. The number of PET-CT studies performed at Cudim increased from approximately 4,000 in 2015 to over 7,000 in 2025. These studies are covered by the National Resource Fund and are free of charge to both patients and institutions.
Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Recent research from the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) in Spain has shown promising results in combating drug resistance in pancreatic cancer. A triple therapy combination – daraxonrasib, afatinib, and SD36 – successfully prevented the development of resistance in animal models. Researchers noted this “opens the way for the design of combined therapies that could improve survival.” However, they emphasized that this is experimental and clinical trials in humans are not yet planned.
The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, demonstrated robust tumor regression, prevention of resistance, and good tolerance in mice. The research received funding from several organizations including the CRIS Cancer Foundation and the European Research Council.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common cancers in Uruguay?
In women, the most frequent cancers are breast, colorectal, lung, and cervical. In men, they are prostate, lung, and colorectal.
Can cancer be prevented?
Approximately 40% of cancer cases may be preventable by addressing risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and sun exposure.
What is a PET-CT scan?
A PET-CT scan is a non-invasive imaging technology that combines metabolic and anatomical images using radioactive substances, allowing for more precise and early diagnosis, treatment evaluation, and disease monitoring.
Considering the advancements in diagnostic tools and preventative measures, what role do you believe individual lifestyle choices play in mitigating cancer risk within your community?