Meeting the Need for Breast Imaging Training in Tanzania

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and a major cause of cancer mortality among women in Tanzania, second only to cervical cancer.1,2 The fiveyear survival rate of breast cancer in Tanzania is 45%, compared to 90% in the United States.3 In Tanzania, 80% of cases are diagnosed at later stages (III or IV), compared to only 35% in the United States.2-5 Furthermore, breast cancer incidence and mortality in Tanzania are projected to increase by 80% by 2030.2 Improving breast cancer mortality requires early detection, accurate diagnosis and staging, and tissue sampling to determine receptor status and guide chemotherapy. Multiple barriers delay the presentation of breast cancer patients in in Tanzania. These include a lack of basic knowledge and awareness, stigma associated with the disease, and financial and local healthcare system barriers.5 Local barriers, such as limited access to diagnostic services, a lack of trained personnel able to recognize early signs of breast cancer, and broken referral pathways, Meeting the Need for Breast Imaging Training in Tanzania