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Every year, thousands of lives are lost to breast cancer, a disease that claimed an estimated 670,000 lives globally in 2022 alone. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, reflect on progress, and highlight the importance of early detection and effective treatment.
In Malta, the Breast Clinic at Mater Dei Hospital has been at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer for 25 years. To mark this milestone, the Clinic will host The Malta Breast Cancer Conference 2025 on 24 and 25 October 2025 at Antoine de Paule Hall, Sant Anton Palace, Attard. The conference will bring together local and international experts to share insights, celebrate the Clinic’s 25-year achievements in care and treatment, and explore future advancements.
From the very beginning, the vision behind the Breast Clinic was to unite professionals working in this field. The team works closely together to ensure patients receive the best possible care.
Reflecting on the Clinic’s achievements, Dr. Gordon Caruana Dingli, Consultant Breast Surgeon, Mater Dei Hospital, said,
“Looking back at the results in the year 2000, survival rates were below the EU average. Today, through coordination and the hard work of our team, we have reached survival rates that are among the highest in the EU. This is a remarkable achievement for a small country like Malta.”
Dr. Caruana Dingli emphasized that breast cancer is highly treatable.
“Ninety percent of our patients are cured, and for those who are not, we provide treatment that allows them to live well with their condition. It is essential that anyone who notices something unusual consults their doctor or breast surgeon as soon as possible.”
Dr. Claude Magri, Consultant Oncologist, Mater Dei Hospital, highlighted the progress in both detection and treatment.
“Early detection saves lives. Surgery has become less invasive, and radiotherapy is far more precise with modern techniques such as VMAT, which shapes X-rays to target tumours while protecting healthy tissue. Systemic treatments have also evolved. Chemotherapy used to dominate, but today we use targeted therapies that reach cancer cells specifically, minimizing effects on the rest of the body.”
Dr. Magri added that testing for hormone and HER2 receptors allows for personalized treatment.
“When we compare outcomes today to those even five years ago, the survival gains are remarkable.”
Holistic care is central to the Clinic’s approach. Ms. Alexis Borg Sapiano, Breast Care Nurse, Mater Dei Hospital, explained,
“We support patients from their first visit through treatment and surgery. A breast cancer diagnosis can be very anxiety-provoking, so we provide psychological and emotional support to ensure patients are never alone.”
She advises women to perform regular breast checks.
“Check your breasts once a month after your menstrual cycle. If you notice anything abnormal, visit your general practitioner or a trusted doctor for guidance.”
Dr. Jessica Muscat, Consultant Radiologist, Mater Dei Hospital, highlighted the importance of accurate health information.
“There is a lot of information about breast cancer, but it is vital to get it from reliable sources. Screenings may feel uncomfortable, but early detection is key. Ask the right questions and take care of yourself.”
As the Breast Clinic celebrates 25 years of service, its mission remains clear: combining expertise, innovation, and compassion to fight breast cancer. This October, MedTech World joins the Clinic and the global community in recognizing the progress made and the continued need for awareness, early detection, and quality care.
For more information or to support their work, contact Agatha Breast Unit, Mater Dei Hospital or email [email protected].
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