Barriers and Opportunities for Breast Cancer Prevention Measures

Abstract

The incidence of breast cancer remains high. Controlling program needs to involve individuals and communities. Public awareness in early detection and apply healthy living behavior is necessary to minimize risk factors of breast cancer. The aims of this study to explore the barriers and opportunities of health workers in the prevention of breast cancer. This is a qualitative study with phenomenologycal approach. Data collection using Focus Group Discussion. Informants in this study consist of 11 health workers for at least 5 years working period. The results of this study found three themes, namely (1) Barriers to breast cancer prevention efforts, (2) Opportunities for women at risk to take steps to prevent breast cancer, and (3) Opportunities for government programs related to breast cancer prevention efforts. It is hoped that women at risk increase self-awareness in early detection of breast cancer and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Medan City Health Department should be more intensive in conducting socialization and health education about breast cancer prevention in the community.

Keywords

• barriers
• opportunities
• prevention
• breast cancer