THE VITAL

ROLE OF
NURSES
IN BREAST CANCER
AWARENESS, SCREENING,
AND PATIENT CARE
 BREAST CANCER IN ZIMBABWE

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer

among women in Zimbabwe.

Approximately 1 in 10 women will have breast cancer.

Early detection saves lives.

 RISK FACTORS
Increasing age -risk is increased in those above 40 years.
A personal history of breast cancer- history of breast cancer in one
breast increases risk in the other breast.
A family history of breast cancer in mother, sister or daughter.
Inherited genes that increase cancer risk. The most well-known
gene mutations are referred to as BRCA1 and BRCA2. These genes
can greatly increase risk of breast, ovarian, pancreatic and
prostate (in men) cancers, but they don't make cancer inevitable.
Radiation exposure especially during adolescence.
Obesity - Being obese increases your risk of breast cancer.
Early menarche (before 12 years) and late menopause (after 55
years
Nulliparity or having first child at an older age( after age 30)
Postmenopausal hormone therapy.
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer.
Constantly enduring high stress levels
THE VITAL ROLE
OF NURSES
AWARENESS AND SCREENING
PUBLIC EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

Nurses can conduct educational sessions in communities,

churches and workplaces to raise awareness about breast
cancer and the importance of early detection.

They can teach self-breast examination techniques so that

women(and men) are aware of how their breasts normally
look and feel, and promptly report any new or unusual
changes (such as a lump, nipple changes, nipple discharge,
change in skin colour, pain in a breast) to their healthcare
provider.
 SCREENING

A number of screening test have been employed including:

clinical and self breast exams, mammography, genetic
screening, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

In Zimbabwe Breast Self Examination is encouraged since most

of the lumps are discovered by the woman themselves.

Nurses can help individuals schedule mammograms and

provide information about screening centers.
They can assist in reducing barriers to screening, such as
financial concerns or transportation issues.
Targeting the Right Population:

Nurses can identify high-risk populations, such as women with a

family history of breast cancer or those with certain genetic
mutations (e.g., BRCA1/2).
About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are linked to gene
mutations passed through generations of a family.
They can work with primary care providers to ensure that at-risk
individuals receive appropriate screening recommendations.
Mammography is recommended every two years for women
aged 50–74 years.
Women with family history of breast cancer (mum, sibling, or
daughter) may benefit more from beginning mammography
screening between 40 and 49 years of age.
THE VITAL ROLE
OF NURSES
IN MANAGING BREAST CANCER PATIENTS
GOING THROUGH CHEMOTHERAPY
Providing Emotional Support:

Nurses play a crucial role in supporting breast cancer patients

emotionally. They can create a safe and empathetic
environment for patients to express their fears and concerns.
They can educate patients and families about the emotional
challenges of cancer treatment.

Symptom Management:

Nurses monitor and manage chemotherapy-related side

effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and pain.
They educate patients on self-care strategies and medication
management.
Addressing Mental Health Needs:

Nurses can identify signs of distress or mental health issues in

breast cancer patients.
They provide referrals to mental health professionals and
offer supportive counseling when appropriate.

Survivorship Care Planning:

Nurses assist in outlining post-treatment follow-up care and

monitoring.
Nurses can help to connect patients with other breast cancer
survivors and support groups.
They provide education on long-term side effects and
strategies for maintaining overall health.