Prevalence of presumptive clinical signs of breast cancer among women attending an early detection campaign in Lomé in 2023.

Abstract

Introduction: breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Togo. Screening and early diagnosis campaigns are organised to limit the late use of health services. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of presumptive clinical signs of breast cancer and to identify associated factors in Lomé.

Methods: a multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in October 2023 in the commune of Lomé, Togo. Sampling was non-probability and voluntary. Data were collected using a digital questionnaire during the clinical examination of patients. Data were processed and analysed using R 4.3.2 software. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to identify associated factors.

Results: a total of 151 participants took part in the study. The largest group was aged between 18 and 24. The median age of the participants was 29 years, with an interquartile range IIQ: 23 years - 41 years. The prevalence of clinical signs of breast cancer was 35.5%. A nodule in the breast was the main symptom (24.8%), followed by breast discharge (8.3%). The number of children (ORa = 1.84; p = 0.030) was significantly associated with the presence of clinical signs of breast cancer.

Conclusion: the prevalence of presumptive clinical signs of breast cancer among women during a mass early detection campaign is high. It highlights the crucial importance of early detection through mass population campaigns.