Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access

Abstract

Risks and prevention of breast cancer in Cameroon: research into the determinants of late screening in Douala

Henri Essome, Fulbert Mangala Nkwele, Theophille Nana Njamen, Ekono Michel Roger, Moustapha Bilkissou, Astrid Ndolo Kondo, Ingrid Doriane Ofakem Ilick, Christelle Enama Olinga, Junie Ngaha Yaneu, Marga Vanina Ngono Akam, Gervais Mounchikpou Ngouhouo, Grace Tocki Toutou, Jean Paul Engbang Ndamba, Charlotte Tchente Nguefack, Pascal Foumane

Introduction: Breast cancer is the leading female cancer in terms of incidence and mortality. It is responsible for an average loss of life expectancy of about twelve years. Overall survival, all stages combined, is approximately 60% at five years; it kills 2108 women in Cameroon. Research question: What justifies late screening in our setting? Objective: Our study was part of the perspective of better understanding the social determinants of delays in early detection of breast cancer in order to develop counseling strategies for a change in the behavior of the popular masses. Methodology: This was a comparative cross-sectional study with an analytical aim carried out over a period of 06 months (from January 15 to July 15, 2020) by means of a structured and pre-tested questionnaire after informed consent obtained from the participants approached in the consultation units of these hospitals. The study variables were behavioral and practical. The data collected were entered and analyzed using SPSS 23.0 software (statistical package for social sciences) with a significance level established for a value of p<0.05. Results: We retained 1000 eligible women who had given their consent, including 818 users and 182 caregivers in our study population, a significant concordance was found in terms of age groups below 50 years, trader occupation, low level of education and use of traditional pharmacopoeia as determinants of late screening of breast cancer in our community. Conclusion: The results of our study could be an important guide for the actions of the prevention and control program for the early diagnosis of breast cancer in Cameroon through information, education and the fight against poverty.

Published Date: 2023-10-02; Received Date: 2023-08-17