Breast Cancer Screening — HopeScan Initiative

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is now the most diagnosed cancer among women in sub-Saharan West Africa and a leading cause of cancer-related death.

In countries with strong screening systems, survival rates are significantly higher. Yet many women across West Africa face late diagnosis, limited access to mammography and clinical screening, and barriers to treatment.

As populations grow and age, the number of new breast cancer cases is expected to increase sharply through 2050, underscoring the urgent need for accessible, community-based early detection and care navigation programs.

Prevention of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Although not all cases can be prevented, adopting healthy lifestyle practices and participating in regular screening can significantly reduce the risk and enable early detection.

Regular Breast Screening

Routine screening such as mammography and clinical breast examinations helps detect breast cancer at an early stage. Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

The Growing Burden

In 2020, Africa recorded an estimated 185,000–200,000 new breast cancer cases and 85,000–90,000 deaths, with a large share occurring in sub Saharan countries.
Mortality rates are disproportionately high due to late stage presentation, limited mammography access, and delays in diagnosis and treatment.
By 2040, projections indicate a 60–90% increase in breast cancer incidence across Africa, driven by population growth, aging, and lifestyle changes.
By 2050, demographic trends suggest that several sub Saharan countries may see incidence nearly double compared with 2020 levels.
Five year prevalence is rising, meaning more women living with breast cancer, often without adequate follow up or long term oncology care.

Key Challenges

Late diagnosis: Many women present with stage III or IV disease due to low awareness, stigma, and limited access to screening.
Limited screening infrastructure: Mammography and clinical breast exam programs are scarce, especially outside major cities.
Diagnostic delays: Slow access to imaging, biopsy, and pathology leads to advanced disease at treatment initiation.
Treatment barriers: Shortages of oncology specialists, radiotherapy units, and affordable chemotherapy limit survival.
Financial and geographic barriers: Out of pocket costs and long travel distances prevent timely care.
Weak data systems: Limited cancer registry coverage makes planning and resource allocation difficult.

Expanding Access to Breast Cancer Screening and Early Detection

HopeScan advances breast cancer early detection through community-based screening programs, clinical breast exams, and improved access to diagnostic imaging. By integrating patient navigation, provider training, and education initiatives, we reduce barriers to care, enable timely diagnosis, and expand equitable access to life-saving treatment for underserved women.