Breast Imaging and Image-guided Intervention in Tanzania: Initial Experience

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Breast imaging capacity in Tanzania is severely limited, with rare mammography units and inadequate maintenance, quality control, and training.
• Increasing breast cancer incidence in East Africa highlights challenges in accurate diagnosis and differentiation of breast diseases.
• Advancements in affordable ultrasound technology, including point-of-care devices, present an opportunity to improve breast imaging access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and evaluate a sustainable breast imaging and intervention workflow in Tanzania.
• To leverage improved ultrasound technology and radiologist training for enhanced breast cancer diagnosis.
• To integrate radiologic-pathologic correlation for improved patient management and follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Utilized social media for patient outreach and screening, including clinical breast exams.
• Implemented point-of-care ultrasound for symptomatic women, followed by ultrasound-guided biopsies.
• Established a workflow for local pathology review, radiologic-pathologic correlation, and coordinated patient follow-up and treatment.

Main Results:

• Initiated a comprehensive breast imaging and intervention program at Muhimbili Academic Medical Center (MAMC).
• Successfully performed ultrasound-guided biopsies and integrated diagnostic and treatment pathways.
• Facilitated radiologic-pathologic correlation and coordinated patient care, addressing critical gaps in breast health services.

Conclusions:

• The integration of improved ultrasound technology and radiologist training offers a viable model for enhancing breast imaging and intervention capacity in resource-limited settings.
• This approach demonstrates the potential for sustainable improvements in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment coordination in Tanzania.
• The established workflow facilitates timely diagnosis and management, crucial for improving outcomes in breast cancer patients.