Education and training of frontline healthcare providers to improve early detection of breast cancer in West Sub County, Kenya

Project description​

The project successfully implemented a comprehensive training plan that led to increased community education on breast and cervical cancer, resulting in a higher number of individuals seeking early screening.

• 120 community health volunteers (CHVs) from four health centres were trained for two days on basics of breast and cervical cancer to be able to educate communities during their routine household visits, encourage routine screening for breast and cervical cancer, and refer appropriately those with suspected lesions.
• 10 Community Health Assistants (CHAs) who supervise CHVs from these health centres were also trained.
• 5 health care workers (4 clinical officers and 1 nurse) were trained on breast and cervical cancer screening and biopsy collection procedures. This was done at the largest hospital within the County, where patients were referred for biopsy if needed. 16 Fine Needle Biopsy (FNB) were performed as patients who were advised to undergo biopsy procedures were batched together and a mentor performed the procedures with the trainees and offered them guidance.
• 21 nurses and clinical officers were trained on breast and cervical cancer screening and patient navigation. The training was based on the Kenya National training guidelines for breast & cervical cancer screening. 64 patients with suspicious symptoms were connected to screening.

Following the training, the community health workers undertook household visits, raising cancer awareness reaching 2,690 women in the communities. The project also successfully integrated cervical cancer screening into the breast cancer program to ensure comprehensive care. This effort was strategically implemented in collaboration with the County Health leadership to ensure sustained community engagement and healthcare access even after the project's conclusion.

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