Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment in Resource Limited Environments: Challenges and Solutions

Duda RB

Division of Surgical Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, USA

^*Correspondance to: Rosemary B. Duda 

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Abstract:

Breast cancer is a common health problem for women worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Screening measures can be instituted even if modern technology in the form of mammography or ultrasound does not exist. However, there are multiple challenges to screening for breast cancer in resource-limited environments, including underestimation of the risk of breast cancer in these populations, time constraints on physicians, and a cultural aversion to a mastectomy in many communities. Proposed solutions include culturally sensitive public health initiatives that serve to educate women and professional and government personnel about the role of screening for breast cancer as well as the treatment options for each specific target population. Other strategies to assist with screening include teaching nurses and community health workers to perform clinical breast examinations and focused epidemiologic research for pertinent population risk factors, incidence rate and prevalence rate.

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Cite the Article:

Duda RB. Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment in Resource Limited Environments: Challenges and Solutions. Clin Oncol. 2016; 1: 1029.