FACTORS INFLUENCING UPTAKE OF BREAST CANCER SCREENING SERVICES AMONG WOMEN RECEIVING REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES IN KISUMU COUNTY HOSPITAL.

Abstract

Breast cancer is a type of cancer, which begins in the breast cells, where the cells multiply uncontrollably forming a tumor. Breast cancer typically begins in the ducts or lobules of the breast and if invasive, can spread to surrounding tissues when untreated and are life threatening. The other forms of breast cancer, are non-invasive and not life threatening. As a result, there is formation of a lump which is felt even on breast self-examination. In Kenya, it is the leading type of cancer with 6,799 new cases in 2020. The preliminary data is from, (Kenya National Cancer Registry (KNCR), 2014 -2019), which also shows that 7 out of 10 cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages, (stage iii and iv). Uptake of screening services by women is among the contributing factors to diagnosis and management of cancer cases. The current study aims to fill the knowledge gap resulting from the lack of information about the relationships between socioeconomic characteristics, breast cancer screening services, and utilization among women of reproductive age in the Kisumu County Hospital population. A cross-sectional study design will be employed in the current study. Data will be used to examine women who visited Kisumu County Hospital from the age of 15 and above. Respondents will be chosen by simple random sampling. A questionnaire will be given to the participants who will consent, will be used to collect data. The research will employ binary logistic regression analysis and the output will be presented in tables, graphs and charts. The information from the study will improve overall survival rates for Kenyan women, mitigate late-stage diagnoses, and advance breast cancer screening initiatives.