Prevalence of Breast Masses and Barriers to Care: Results From a Population‐based Survey in Rwanda and Sierra Leone

Abstract

Background and Objectives:Breast cancer incidence may be increasing in low‐and middle‐income countries (LMIC). This study estimates theprevalence of breast masses in Rwanda (RW) and Sierra Leone (SL) and identifies barriers to care for women with breast masses. only.Methods:Data were collected from households in RW and SL using Surgeons Overseas Assessment of Surgical Need (SOSAS), a cross‐sectional,randomized, cluster‐based population survey designed to identify surgical conditions. Data regarding breast masses and barriers to care in womenwith breast masses were analyzed.Results:3,469 households (1,626 RW; 1,843 SL) were surveyed and 6,820 persons (3,175 RW; 3,645 SL) interviewed. Breast mass prevalence was3.3% (SL) and 4.6% (RW). Overall, 93.8% of masses were in women, with 49.1% (SL) and 86.1% (RW) in women>30 years. 73.7% (SL) and92.4% (RW) of women reported no disability; this was their primary reason for not seeking medical attention. Overall, 36.8% of women who reportedmasses consulted traditional healers only.Conclusions:For women in RW and SL, minimal education, poverty, and reliance on traditional healers are barriers to medical care for breastmasses. Public health programs to increase awareness and decrease barriers are necessary to lower breast cancer mortality rates in low‐and middle‐income countries (LMIC).