Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Healthcare Professionals on Breast Cancer Screening in a Cameroonian Reference Hospital

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer represents a significant burden in Cameroon, and early detection is a key pillar for improving prognosis. Healthcare professionals are crucial actors in raising awareness and guiding patients. However, their own knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding screening remain poorly documented. The objective of this study was to evaluate the KAP of healthcare staff at the Yaoundé Central Hospital (YCH) regarding breast cancer screening. Method: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2023 among healthcare staff at the Yaoundé Central Hospital. Sociodemographic data and KAP on breast cancer screening were collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was performed using Epi Info version 3.5.4 software. Results: The study included 105 healthcare professionals, with a mean age of 35.5 years. All participants had heard of breast cancer, and 94.9% recognized the existence of risk factors. Mammography, breast self-examination (BSE), and ultrasound were known as screening methods by 83.1%, 84.4%, and 48.1% of participants, respectively. However, personal screening practices were low among female staff (n = 76), with 48.7% reporting personal screening, predominantly through BSE (65.8%). Mammography was only performed by 31.6% of them. Furthermore, 47.4% of women performed mammography annually, which does not align with screening guidelines that recommend doing so every two years. Conclusion: The healthcare staff at YCH possess a good level of theoretical knowledge about breast cancer and screening. However, this knowledge does not translate into optimal attitudes and practices, particularly concerning the use of mammography. It is imperative to intensify continuing education and targeted awareness initiatives for healthcare professionals to harmonize their practices with scientific guidelines and thus improve patient care.