Durango, Mexico is bolstering its fight against cancer, particularly breast cancer, with the recent inauguration of the Clínica Integral de la Mujer (Comprehensive Women’s Clinic). The novel facility, located within the Hospital Materno Infantil de Durango, aims to provide specialized, free care to women diagnosed with cancer, focusing on both medical treatment and crucial emotional support. This initiative comes as the state grapples with increasing cancer diagnoses and seeks to improve outcomes through early detection and comprehensive care.
The opening of the clinic represents a collaborative effort between the state government and civil society, fueled by over one million pesos raised through the 2024 Marea Rosa (Pink Tide) solidarity race. Governor Esteban Villegas Villarreal, State DIF President Marisol Rosso Rivera and Durango City Mayor Toño Ochoa officially opened the facility during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The project underscores a commitment to addressing a significant public health challenge and providing a vital resource for women in Durango.
A Holistic Approach to Cancer Care
The Clínica Integral de la Mujer offers a wide range of services designed to support patients throughout their cancer journey. Beyond traditional medical treatments, the clinic provides access to nutritional guidance, psychological counseling, rehabilitation services, palliative care, and even a wig service for patients undergoing chemotherapy. A specialized clinic for lymphedema, wound and catheter care, is also included, addressing a critical need identified by recent data. Between 2024 and early 2025, over 1,200 women in Durango received treatment for lymphedema, highlighting the importance of this specialized unit. Durango state officials emphasized the significance of this comprehensive approach.
Marisol Rosso Rivera, President of the State DIF, emphasized the fulfillment of a promise made during last year’s Marea Rosa race. “Here is a promise that we made last year with the invitation of Marea Rosa 2024, more than one million pesos that were raised here are invested, together with the Secretary of Health through CECAN, we joined efforts and we just opened this clinic today,” she stated. The clinic will serve women residing in Durango state who have a confirmed cancer diagnosis and are registered with the CECAN (State Cancer Control Center).
Rising Cancer Rates and the Importance of Early Detection
The launch of the Clínica Integral de la Mujer comes at a critical time, as Durango is experiencing an increase in cancer cases, particularly breast cancer. According to data released during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 2025, the state recorded 130 new cases of breast cancer up to epidemiological week 38, exceeding the 111 cases registered in 2024. State health officials reported 105 deaths from breast cancer in the same period.
Jesús Armando Flores Álvarez, Subsecretary of Promotion, Prevention and Medical Care of the Durango Health Services (SSD), stressed the curability of cancer when detected early. “Cancer remains a curable disease when detected on time. Survival depends on the stage at which it is diagnosed. That is why we insist that women go to have their studies and mammograms done,” he explained. The state currently operates six fixed mammography units in strategic locations – Paseo Constitución, El Salto, Cuencamé, Lerdo, UNEME Dedicam, and Santa María del Oro – and a mobile mammography unit that extends access to remote communities.
More than 3,500 mammograms have been performed in Durango this year, with 500 conducted by the mobile unit, demonstrating a concerted effort to reach underserved populations. This expansion of diagnostic capabilities is crucial, as early detection remains the most effective strategy for improving survival rates.
Investing in Infrastructure and Resources
Governor Villegas has pledged further investment in cancer care infrastructure. He announced the allocation of 9 million pesos to CECAN for the acquisition of new equipment, stating that the procurement process is already underway. “I am delivering 9 million pesos to CECAN, they must already be in the bidding process for part of the equipment that was needed. No one will be left unattended, we will be very attentive,” he assured. The governor also acknowledged the historical foundations of the oncology center and emphasized the importance of concrete actions to build upon past successes.
The establishment of the Clínica Integral de la Mujer and the increased investment in cancer care represent a significant step forward in Durango’s efforts to combat this disease. By providing comprehensive, accessible, and free care, the state aims to improve outcomes for women diagnosed with cancer and offer hope to those affected by this challenging illness.
Key Takeaways
- Durango has opened a new Comprehensive Women’s Clinic offering free, specialized cancer care.
- The clinic provides a holistic approach, including medical treatment, psychological support, and rehabilitation services.
- Cancer rates are rising in Durango, emphasizing the need for early detection and increased resources.
- The state is investing in new equipment and expanding access to mammography services.
Looking ahead, Durango’s health authorities will continue to monitor cancer incidence rates and refine prevention and treatment strategies. The next key milestone will be the completion of the equipment procurement process for CECAN, expected in the coming months, which will further enhance the state’s capacity to deliver high-quality cancer care. We encourage readers to share this information and engage in discussions about cancer awareness and prevention.