Uptake of Breast Self-Examination Strategy As Preventive Control Measures Of Breast Cancer Among Adult Reproductive Females In Kayonza District, Rwanda

Breast cancer (BC) remains one of the leading causes of death globally, affecting women in both developed and developing countries. One of the most accessible and cost-effective prevention methods is Breast Self-Examination (BSE), which empowers women to detect abnormalities early. This study aimed to assess the uptake of BSE as a preventive control measure for breast cancer among adult reproductive females in Kayonza District, Rwanda. The findings aim to inform the development of national policies and strategies to enhance early detection, and to guide the Ministry of Health (MoH) in promoting regular BSE practice among women. A cross-sectional descriptive design with both quantitative and qualitative components was used. The quantitative survey involved 375 women aged 30–60 years selected from five health centers in the district, employing a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and interviews, then coded, categorized, and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and Pearson correlation analysis were used. Results revealed a statistically significant relationship between BSE practice and breast cancer prevention, with a moderate positive correlation coefficient of 0.343* and a p-value of 0.001 (p < 0.01), indicating that BSE significantly contributes to early detection. Despite this, the study found that many women in Kayonza lack proper knowledge or skills to perform BSE correctly. The study concludes that BSE plays a significant role in breast cancer prevention and recommends that the Ministry of Health, the Kayonza District Health Unit, and the broader community intensify awareness campaigns and provide practical training on BSE to improve uptake and effectiveness. Keywords: Breast Self-Examination, Breast Cancer Prevention, Reproductive Females, Kayonza District