Prevention and early detection can reduce up to one in three cancer cases, according to the Ministry of Health. On World Cancer Day, the ministry urged the public to focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyles as key measures to lower the impact of cancer nationwide.
Cancer is currently the second leading cause of death overall and the main cause of premature mortality among people aged 30 to 69. This results in significant health, social, and economic consequences for Costa Rica.
Skin cancer is reported as the most common type in both men and women, making up nearly a quarter of all diagnosed cases. Among women, breast cancer remains the most prevalent, while prostate cancer leads among men. The Ministry emphasized that these statistics highlight the need for sun protection, self-examinations, regular medical check-ups, and prompt medical attention if warning signs appear.
Certain regions such as San José, Alajuela, Heredia, Guanacaste, and Puntarenas have higher incidence rates. This underlines the importance of targeted prevention efforts and increased access to screening services in these provinces.
In children and adolescents, leukemia and lymphoma are most frequently diagnosed. Although mortality rates are low in this group, their impact is considerable. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely access to treatment remain public health priorities.
The country has identified breast, cervical (cérvix), stomach, and colorectal cancers as priorities due to their high rates of premature mortality. For cervical cancer—which is linked to human papillomavirus (HPV)—progress is being made through vaccination programs and expanded HPV testing for earlier detection. Screening for stomach and colorectal cancers should also be strengthened starting at ages 50 and 55 respectively.
The Ministry stated that “one third of cancer cases can be prevented by healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco and alcohol use, sun protection, vaccination programs,” as well as participation in early detection initiatives.
On World Cancer Day the message from health authorities was clear: “Early detection saves lives and allows for more effective treatments with fewer side effects.” They added that fighting cancer requires shared responsibility between government institutions, communities, and individuals.
