Capturing people-centred cancer care and advocacy in Brazil

The Núcleo Mama unit at  Hospital Moinhos de Vento and FEMAMA, Brazil’s leading cancer advocacy network, are demonstrating how people-centred care can be delivered across both hospital and community settings. Their work shows how medical treatment, emotional support, and practical assistance can come together to improve the experience of people living with breast cancer.

At Núcleo Mama, care is designed around the needs and values of each individual. People are introduced to a guided treatment pathway that includes consultations, group support sessions, and symbolic moments like placing a ribbon on the ‘Tree of Hope’ to mark treatment milestones. Emotional care is fully integrated, with opportunities to share experiences, build resilience, and foster trust with medical staff and peers.

“Emotional support plays a crucial role in a person’s cancer journey. While medical care treats the disease, emotional support strengthens mental resilience and encourages adherence to treatment. When people feel genuinely cared for, heard, and supported by those around them, including their medical team, it can make a meaningful difference in how they experience care, and can improve chances of successful treatment.”
– Dr Maira Caleffi, Chief of Núcleo Mama and President of FEMAMA

As President of FEMAMA (Federação Brasileira de Instituições Filantrópicas de Apoio à Saúde da Mama, the Brazilian Federation of Philanthropic Institutions Supporting Breast Health), Dr Caleffi leads a network of over 70 non-profit organisations advocating for earlier diagnosis and equitable access to care. Among them is Instituto da Mama do Rio Grande do Sul (IMAMA), a grassroots group in Porto Alegre that supports people navigating Brazil’s public health system.

IMAMA offers legal guidance, physiotherapy, counselling, and access to wigs, scarves, and self-care activities. Peer support groups and therapy circles create a space for connection and shared experience, reinforcing the emotional support that complements medical treatment.

“Creating a more positive and welcoming experience for patients throughout the needs that arise during the cancer journey plays a crucial role in care. Volunteering strengthens the patient experience and helps build a stronger support network by connecting patients with other people and institutions willing to help. The motivation comes from a love for life and the hope of reducing the number of deaths caused by breast cancer.”
– Cintia Graziella Seben, Volunteer President, IMAMA