Breast cancer screening in San Marino will continue on an annual basis, with no reductions planned in the number of mammograms. The Institute for Social Security (Istituto per la Sicurezza Sociale, ISS) has confirmed that the programme will continue according to its existing schedule and organisation, while a scientific study is being prepared to evaluate its features and outcomes.
“The review launched by the ISS concerns the scientific evaluation of the San Marino model and does not, at this stage, involve any changes to the programme offered to women,” the statement reads.
The work involves the Directorate of Health and Social-Health Activities and the Breast Diagnostics Unit (U.O.S. Diagnostica Senologica). A protocol is being drawn up for an observational study lasting at least five years, dedicated to the San Marino programme, which is distinguished by its annual frequency and the use of tomosynthesis.
The Epidemiological Observatory is also taking part in defining the project, with Dr. Andrea Gualtieri providing support through the Cancer Registry, data collection, and statistical and epidemiological analysis. Once completed, the protocol will be submitted to the San Marino Bioethics Committee in 2027. Only after this step can the implementation phase begin.
“The review process has already begun, and in recent weeks several meetings have been held to define the structure of the study and the elements that will need to be assessed,” explains Antonio Battistini, head of the ISS Breast Diagnostics Unit.
“This is a complex undertaking that requires careful data collection and solid statistical and epidemiological support. That is why we are also working with the Epidemiological Observatory and the Cancer Registry. The goal is to build a methodologically rigorous protocol that, once finalised, will be submitted to the San Marino Bioethics Committee before the study begins.”
This initiative is part of the broader effort to strengthen breast care services promoted by the new Executive Committee (Comitato Esecutivo), which has also led to the creation of the Breast Unit and the consolidation of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up pathways for patients.
Alessandro Bertolini, director of Health and Social-Health Activities, clarified the project’s objectives: “On this issue, the Health Directorate and the Breast Diagnostics Unit fully share the same goals and working method, starting with the commitment to ensure women have access to prevention, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment pathways.”
“It’s important to make clear that no cuts to screening are planned, nor is there any aim to reduce the number of mammograms. On the contrary, the ISS has chosen to invest in breast care, and the establishment of the Breast Unit is an integral part of that effort. The study will help provide a deeper scientific understanding of the characteristics and outcomes of the San Marino programme, offering further evidence to guide future decisions — always with the protection of women’s health as the guiding principle.”
