Abstract: Breast cancer remains a global health problem causing the death among female cancers worldwide, responsible for about 1 in 6 cancer deaths and 2.3 million new cases each year. According to Globocan 2021, the rate of breast cancer in Rwanda is approximately 40.7 cases per 100 thousand women, and the rate of mortality is 20 per 100 thousand. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the factors having an influence on the utilization of the services related to breast cancer screening services among women. It is a cross-sectional study targeting women between 18 to 65 years attending three District Hospitals (Masaka, Nyarugenge, and Muhima) in Kigali city. A sample size of 387was used from Cochrane sample size formula. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess significant factors related to breast cancer, employing logistic regression to adjust for confounders. The findings indicated that only 4.4% of respondents had ever undergone a breast cancer screening test. In addition, individuals who were exposed to greater awareness through educational campaigns and media were significantly more likely to utilize breast cancer services (AoR) of 8.265 (p = 0.001). Those who had access to services that were convenient and accessible were 11.628 times more likely to use breast cancer services (p < 0.001). Similarly, those who had access to free or subsidized screenings were 7.168 times more likely to seek out these services (p = 0.03). On the other hand, family history of breast cancer and personal risk perception did not show significant associations with the use of breast cancer services. At the end of this study, the researcher recommends enhancing public awareness campaigns, improving accessibility and convenience of screening services, expanding free or subsidized screening programs and investigating the role of family history and risk perception.
Keywords: Factors, Breast Cancer, Screening Services, Kigali City, Rwanda.
Title: FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH BREAST CANCER SCREENING SERVICES AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING THREE DISTRICT HOSPITALS IN KIGALI CITY, RWANDA
Author: Gabriel Nshimiyimana, Dr. Charles Nsanzabera
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025
Page No: 267-274
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 19-June-2025
