Enhancing early detection and access to breast health services in Río San Juan, Nicaragua

Project description​

The project team collaborated with the MoH, to integrate breast cancer health services into the already existing Family and Community Health Model (MOSAFC), implemented by the Ministry of Health at the national level, which made it possible to reach the vulnerable population and provide health services free of charge. Medical professionals updated training materials which have been used to train 58 health personnel in performing clinical breast examination. Following the training, the medical professionals screened 1,780 women for breast abnormalities, 6 women with suspicious symptoms were referred for Fine Needle Biopsy (FNB) and received a definitive diagnosis.

The project also focused on improving the understanding of women on the early warning signs of breast abnormalities. ​This was achieved through an awareness campaign and the development of informative videos and materials reaching a total of 8,457 people.

The project successfully integrated the ‘two in one visit’ strategy into sexual and reproductive health services in the region. ​This strategy involved offering clinical breast examination during the same medical consultation where screening for cervical cancer was previously exclusively offered. This is notable, as ​before the project, this was not commonly practised by health personnel. The project contributed to the continuous improvement of cancer detection services through technical coordination meetings, data analysis meetings, and technical support visits that were conducted to analyse the quality of care provided to women.

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