HEART
Better Quality of Life in Breast Cancer
A nationwide digital innovation combining clinical expertise and technology to support breast cancer patients, caregivers, and future professionals throughout their journey.
What is the HEART Project?
HEART (Psychology Meets Digitalisation) is a groundbreaking initiative to transform psychological support for breast cancer patients in Bulgaria.
Enhances the LIFE app — a digital diary for breast cancer patients
Integrates psychological screening through Analyse Yourself platform
Connects patients directly with certified psycho-oncology specialists
Provides training opportunities for young professionals (18–29)
Generates national data to advocate for systemic healthcare change
Our Mission
To ensure every breast cancer patient and their family has access to timely, professional psychological support when they need it most.
The Cancer Care Crisis in Bulgaria
Recent European data reveals alarming gaps in Bulgaria's cancer care system, highlighting the urgent need for integrated psychological support initiatives like HEART.
Systemic Healthcare Challenges
Workforce Crisis
- Only 3.3 oncologists per 100K
- No specialized oncology nurses outside Sofia
- 31% below EU average for nurses
Worsening Trends
- Cancer mortality INCREASED 2% (men), 1% (women)
- Only EU country with rising cancer deaths
- Higher avoidable mortality than EU
Care Fragmentation
- 40% of oncology centers in Sofia only
- No population-based screening programs
- Cancer registry ceased functioning (2023)
Bulgaria vs EU Average
Breast Cancer Screening
Mental Health Impact
HPV Vaccination
Health Prevention Spending
Why HEART Matters
These statistics reveal a healthcare system in crisis. The HEART project addresses the most critical gap: the complete absence of systematic psychological support for cancer patients, despite facing the highest mental health burden in Europe.
Why HEART is Needed
In Bulgaria, psychological care is not part of standard oncology practice, leaving patients and caregivers without crucial emotional support.
Emotional Burden
Patients and families carry heavy psychological weight during treatment
Lack of Access
Psychological care is not standard in Bulgarian oncology practice
Late Detection
Early signs of anxiety and depression often go unnoticed
Caregiver Overload
Family supporters rarely receive professional psychological help
Systemic Gaps
No national evidence base exists to drive policy change
The HEART Solution
A comprehensive three-pillar approach combining digital innovation, human expertise, and rigorous research.
Digital Integration
- LIFE app reaches breast cancer patients directly
- Analyse Yourself provides automated mental health screening
- Smart referral system connects patients with certified psychologists
- Digital triage ensures early detection of symptoms
Human Expertise
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology provides clinical guidance
- Young professionals (18–29) trained for support roles
- Certified specialists available through voucher system
Research Component
- First national study measuring anxiety & depression
- Data from patients, caregivers, and general population
- Evidence base for systemic healthcare advocacy
Новини & Обновления
Безплатен уебинар на Проект HEART: „Ролята на грижещия се" — 8 октомври 2026 г.
На 8 октомври от 18:00 ч. лекари, психолози и грижещи се се събират онлайн, за да говорят открито за ролята на близкия на човек с рак на гърдата — и как да се погрижите и за себе си. Участието е безплатно.
Прочетете повечеМедицински център NM Genomix се присъединява като партньор на проект СЪРЦЕ
Медицински център NM Genomix поставя началото на ново партньорство в подкрепа на проекта СЪРЦЕ, инициатива, насочена към пациентки с рак на гърдата и потребителите на приложението LIFE.
Прочетете повечеЗаписът от нашия уебинар вече е достъпен
На 2 април 2026 г. проведохме първия по рода си уебинар за близките на хора с рак на гърдата. Пропуснахте го? Вижте записа тук!
Прочетете повечеБезплатен уебинар на Проект HEART: „Ролята на грижещия се" — 8 октомври 2026 г.
На 8 октомври от 18:00 ч. лекари, психолози и грижещи се се събират онлайн, за да говорят открито за ролята на близкия на човек с рак на гърдата — и как да се погрижите и за себе си. Участието е безплатно.
Прочетете повечеReady to Make a Difference?
Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, your participation helps build a better support system for everyone.