African Region (AFR)
To operationalise the National Cancer Control Strategy, one of the major documents produced is the National Guidelines for Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Zambia. These guidelines shall play a pivotal role in accelerating the reduction of breast cancer morbidity and mortality amongst the affected individuals, especially women who bear the greatest burden of breast cancer in our country. These guidelines will further catalyse the reduction of healthcare costs as treatment modalities for early diagnosis of breast cancer will be less costly and complicated with better health outcomes, a key to socio-economic development of the country. This document therefore contains useful guidance that will enhance the successful implementation of the national program on early diagnosis of breast cancer in Zambia
These guidelines will focus on early diagnosis of breast cancer in patients who have signs and symptoms and an average risk of developing breast cancer. The goal is to identify breast cancer as soon as possible, and provide diagnosis and treatment in the earliest stages, when it is more effective, has less complications and is less costly; ultimately the objective is to improve the quality of life and increase the survival of patients. The guidelines will also address screening recommendations for asymptomatic patients, although it is not recommended that public efforts and resources be allocated to developing a nationwide, population-based screening program until diagnostic imaging, pathology services, and referral for surgery and specialized treatment are established and functioning. In facilities or programs where these services are available, accessible and functioning, opportunistic screening can be a viable option in accordance with the recommendations from the WHO.