Breast cancer epidemiology in my country. Comparison of epidemiological similarities and differences with Czech Republic

Abstract

In this paper I have examined the differences between the Czech Republic and Israel in the occurrence of breast cancer in women. I have compared the two countries health systems and general socio-economic situation. I have also examined the different risk factors common for the two countries and the prevention efforts. The comparison shows that although seemingly the general health indicators in Israel are better than those of the Czech Republic, the incidence of breast cancer in women is still significantly higher in Israel. I will show that breast cancer is apparently a civilization disease and is rising in all the western, developed countries together with the improvement of economy and health care. As research shows the major risk factor for breast cancer is hormonal dysbalance caused by higher exposure to estrogens. This higher exposure is connected with the modernization process and the changing life style of women in western countries. Thus it is possible to say that living in a modern society in the western countries carries a higher risk for women to develop breast cancer. Although it is also clear that breast cancer is a multifactorial disease and there are certainly factors that we do not know yet that influence the incidence worldwide. Both countries are making a considerable effort mainly in...