Training primary health workers to improve early breast cancer detection in Nepal

B. P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital – Nepal

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 increase awareness of breast cancer symptoms in the community, train healthcare workers on clinical examination and patient navigation, and to advocate for the importance of early diagnosis in the government and among local institutions.

Project description

The project leveraged a collaboration with IARC for technical expertise and also collaborated with government health departments, local healthcare providers, academic institutions, community leaders and advocacy groups to align the project with national health priorities, leverage existing resources, and promote awareness of breast health. Through collaborations with 40 policymakers, the team promoted effective communication between healthcare workers, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centres contributing to a well-coordinated and expedited diagnostic process. The project created a wealth of educational and assessment materials in multiple languages (English, Nepali, and Maithali) and received support from the local governments to extend a similar approach more widely in the country.

The project trained 250 primary healthcare workers on clinical breast examination and the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. This training also emphasized the importance of streamlined diagnostic referral networks, ensuring that suspected cases move swiftly through the diagnostic pathway. Through the project, 420 women were screened with CBE, and 4 women were referred for further confirmation of diagnosis.

Additionally, 700 people were reached through awareness campaigns and events, promoting the importance of early detection and regular check-ups and an additional 300 people through information and educational resources.