Integrating Breast Cancer Early Detection Into a Resource-Constrained Primary Health Care System: Health Care...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Global Health

Background:

• Limited evidence exists for integrating breast cancer early detection in resource-constrained settings without mammography.
• Understanding healthcare worker perspectives is crucial for developing effective strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore healthcare workers' views on a breast cancer early detection initiative in Rwanda.
• To identify successes and challenges in implementing early detection services at community, primary, and secondary care levels.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing semistructured interviews with 33 healthcare workers (community health workers, clinicians, administrators).
• Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns in program successes and challenges.
• The study focused on the Women's Cancer Early Detection Program (WCEDP) in Rwanda.

Main Results:

• Participants reported increased community awareness and care-seeking for breast health.
• Healthcare workers gained improved breast health knowledge, skills, and confidence.
• Challenges included overcoming stigma, engaging older women, staffing shortages, and patient poverty hindering referral completion.

Conclusions:

• Rwandan healthcare workers identified practical successes and challenges in early breast cancer diagnosis implementation.
• Future interventions should prioritize older women's engagement, community awareness, patient socioeconomic support, and primary care integration.