Roberto de Almeida Gil
Renata Oliveira Maciel dos Santos

Abstract
Cancer screening is a fundamental strategy for reducing the disease burden in Brazil; however, its effectiveness depends on rigorous technical criteria and the organization of the healthcare network. This article aims to discuss the difficulties and strategies to optimize cancer screening within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). It reflects on the challenges related to the availability of tests, diagnostic confirmation, time to treatment initiation, insufficient infrastructure and human resources, as well as low adherence to guidelines. The article differentiates opportunistic screening, which predominates in Brazil, from organized screening, which is considered more effective as it ensures active invitations, comprehensive follow-up, and a greater impact on mortality reduction. It also presents tools available to minimize these barriers, emphasizing the importance of disseminating evidence-based guidelines, implementing integrated information systems, applying technical parameters to guide healthcare network planning, promoting continuous training for healthcare professionals, ensuring clear communication with the population and using digital technologies for monitoring. The article concludes that strengthening the healthcare network, combined with the qualification of care and the implementation of organized strategies, is essential for screening to fulfill its role in early detection and cancer control, ensuring equity, access and effectiveness within SUS.

Keywords: Early Detection of Cancer; Health Planning; Unified Health System; Health Services Programming