In 2021, the disease claimed the lives of over 2,000 individuals in the country.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Belgium, affecting a significant portion of the population.

Statistics reveal that one in eight women in Belgium will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.

Historically, a breast cancer diagnosis was often perceived as a death sentence, a sentiment echoed by oncologist Martine Piccart from HUB-Bordet.

However, advancements in research have transformed this outlook, with current survival rates showing that 90% of breast cancer patients live at least five years after diagnosis.

Over the past two decades, significant progress in understanding breast cancer biology, diagnostic tools, and treatment options has been made.

Martine Piccart, a co-founder of the BIG organization, has played a pivotal role in this research, which has been ongoing for over 20 years.