“I was afraid of dying”: the story of Yorleny Álvarez and the cancer that affected her family in Costa Rica

Yorleny Álvarez Badilla, a 41-year-old nurse with two decades of service at the Hospital of Puntarenas in Costa Rica, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2025. The diagnosis occurred during a routine medical checkup for a pre-existing fibroadenoma. Álvarez has publicly shared her experience, citing the fear of death as a significant emotional challenge during her health crisis.

Beyond the individual case, the broader discourse surrounding cancer care highlights systemic concerns regarding timely diagnosis and treatment access. Discussions emphasize the critical importance of early medical intervention and the institutional responsibilities required to ensure patients receive prompt care to prevent delays that can negatively impact health outcomes.