In a groundbreaking effort to improve breast cancer early detection in underserved communities, Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) have been trained in the use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) technology for breast screening. This initiative which happened on the 27th of September, marks a significant step toward equipping primary healthcare providers with advanced diagnostic tools to address the growing burden of breast cancer in resource-limited settings.
The training, organized by leading healthcare professionals and supported by the Consortium for Advancement of Medical Imaging Education in Africa (CAMERA), was designed to empower CHEWs with the knowledge and skills to perform breast screening using POCUS. The program emphasized hands-on practice, focusing on identifying suspicious breast lesions, understanding breast anatomy via ultrasound, and implementing referral protocols for advanced care.
“This initiative bridges a critical gap in cancer care by enabling CHEWs to detect potential cases early, especially in communities where access to mammography is limited,” said Dr. Maruf Adewole, a key facilitator of the training.
The program included lectures, live demonstrations, and practice sessions on using portable ultrasound devices effectively. Participants were also taught the importance of patient communication, privacy, and ensuring follow-up care for individuals with suspicious findings.
Over 10 CHEWs from various regions completed the training and are now equipped to provide accessible, cost-effective breast screening services. This effort is expected to significantly reduce delays in diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes for women in underserved areas.
As the program continues to expand, organizers aim to scale the initiative across more regions, with plans to integrate additional training in other critical areas of healthcare. By harnessing the potential of POCUS technology, CHEWs are now better positioned to play a pivotal role in the fight against breast cancer in low-resource settings.
This milestone reflects the commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and ensuring no one is left behind in the battle against breast cancer.
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