Challenges in the diagnosis of breast cancer in homeless women: a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm among women and a global public health challenge.
Homeless women face barriers to diagnosis and treatment due to the lack of preventive exams, stigma, and social vulnerability—factors that compromise early detection and adherence to treatment. Objectives: The study aimed to analyze
challenges in diagnosing breast cancer in homeless women, highlighting barriers and strategies for inclusion. Methods: The
bibliographic review was conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar repositories, employing the descriptors “breast cancer,” “social vulnerability,” “challenges,” and “treatment”, including studies from 2015 to 2024. Results: This
review analyzed the factors that hinder the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in vulnerable women, especially those
experiencing homelessness. Limited access to healthcare, long waiting lines, socioeconomic inequality, and lack of information exacerbates the problem. Racial disparities indicate that Black and mixed-race women face greater difficulties.
Public policies are essential to ensure equity in accessing proper examinations and treatments. Conclusion: The review
on breast cancer diagnosis in homeless women in Brazil (2015–2024) identified difficulties in accessing healthcare, long
waiting lines, a lack of examinations, and insufficient knowledge about prevention. Socioeconomic and racial disparities
exacerbate the scenario, with advanced stages being more prevalent among Black and mixed-race women. The absence
of continuous screening and adapted policies contributes to delayed diagnoses. Effective measures, such as mobile units
and targeted campaigns, are essential to broaden access. Improving data quality can make strategies more precise, reducing inequalities in care and treatment.