Expanding access to genetic and genomic tests in cancer in Brazil
FEMAMA, Brazil
As part of the Breast Cancer programme, this project was awarded a grant for early detection of breast cancer in October 2021.
Project objectives
The objective of this project was to pass a bill at the National Congress which proposes to grant access to genetic hereditary and genomic tests for breast and ovarian cancer within the scope of national health system, with the possibility of breast cancer surgeons and oncologists (in addition to geneticists) to request the genetic tests. This would provide more personalized and value-based medicine for patients and health managers. Brazilian women who depend exclusively on the public health system do not have access to these tests. The team also raised awareness in though country though online awareness campaigns.
Project description
The team carried out extensive advocacy in the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate and in 2021 it was approved by the Health and Women's Commissions of the Chamber of Deputies, the federal legislative body and the lower house of National Congress of Brazil. In 2022, FEMAMA also advocated within the offices of Deputies and the Federal Government, presenting scientific subsidies to strengthen the arguments in favour of the matter.
Overall, the bill received unanimous approval by the Women's Rights Commission with approval by 25 parliamentarians, unanimous approval by the Social Security and Family Commission approval by 44 deputies, favourable guidance from more than 20 parties and benches for the approval of the urgent request. Majority, minority, government and opposition leaders also were in favour of the urgency request. The urgency request was approved with the presence of 422 parliamentarians in total. The process to get this bill adopted is still ongoing.
In addition, society was reached through key awareness campaign messages shared on social media, where the organisation has an extensive following.
Key numbers
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Last update
Tuesday 12 August 2025