Improving Breast Cancer Patients Survival and Quality of Life by Targeting Traditional and Religious Leaders in Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Background and context: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Nigerian women, mostly aged 35 years and older. The survival rate of breast cancer patient in northern Nigeria is 40% and below as compared with that of developed countries at 95% and above. The rising incidence of breast cancer in northern Nigeria is complicated, mainly due to cultural beliefs for incision by traditional rulers, poverty, illiteracy and fear of high cost of treatment. Aim: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Nigerian women, mostly aged 35 years and older. The survival rate of breast cancer patient in northern Nigeria is 40% and below as compared with that of developed countries at 95% and above. The rising incidence of breast cancer in northern Nigeria is complicated, mainly due to cultural beliefs for incision by traditional rulers, poverty, illiteracy and fear of high cost of treatment. Strategy/Tactics: We made contact with two tertiary health facilities in Kebbi state to determine the baseline prevalence of stage 3 and 4 breast cancer in the hospitals. Organized cancer sensitization workshops for religious bodies to incorporate breast cancer awareness into sermons and also capacity building for nurses and traditional healers. Engaged the media through delivery of radio and television jingles on dangers of refusing medical care and also telling the stories of cancer survivors to enable the populace to be strong and brave to take charge of their health and quality of life. Program/Policy process: The entire communities were carried along. Tertiary health facilities provided support in giving access to relevant data. Permission from local government chairmen were sorted to interact with members of the communities. The general public were engaged through media. Outcomes: There was 30% increase in percentage of male participation especially spouses in encouraging women to seek appropriate help for breast cancer. Traditional healers and religious leaders had a positive impact in sensitizing women on need to attend hospitals for any breast changes early so as to reduce the incidence of late detected cases. They also alleviated avenues of stigmatization among the populace. Survivors were able to tell their stories via various media channels. What was learned: Majority of the target population lack access to basic health care. They patronize unorthodox medicine rather than clinical medicine. Cancer education and advocacy made a huge difference in health care perspective of this population. There is great need for continued cancer education and awareness to improve patients' survival and quality of life.