Breast aware: A train the trainer programme for nurses in Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda and Tanzania
International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care – Canada/Global
As part of the Breast Cancer programme, this project was awarded a grant for early detection of breast cancer in October 2022.
Project objectives
The project aimed to establish a train-the-trainer programme across five countries to build capacity of nurses in a culturally appropriate manner. Through focus groups, the project has adapted a tested educational package to the local needs by incorporating country-specific content as well as ensuring continued mentorship for trainer nurses.
Project description
The project has adapted the established “Adopt the breast aware” train-the-trainer programme to the needs of five target countries (Cameroon, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania). By conducting a series of focus groups in each of these countries, ICCN together with six in-country nurses have adapted the training and educational materials to the local context. The six lead nurses were trained on the curriculum and with the mentorship of ICCN, delivered five virtual train-the-trainers to train other nurses, allowing for a multiplier effect in reaching out to nurses across the five countries who are working in urban settings as well as rural settings. In total, 135 nurses were trained on a range of topics in four key areas: risk factors in breast cancer, the importance and technique of breast examination, breast cancer detection methods and leadership in nursing.
Key numbers
Impact
The nurses trained through the programme are now equipped with the knowledge and tools to train others, particularly in hard-to-reach communities where early detection is most needed. Several of them have already implemented what they learned in their own communities.
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Last update
Tuesday 22 July 2025