Access to Breast Cancer Screening Programs for Ugandan Women: A Review

Breast cancer is a growing public health concern in Uganda, where many women are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to poor outcomes. Early detection through screening and timely diagnostic pathways can significantly improve prognosis, yet Uganda faces multiple barriers to effective screening, including health-system limitations, geographic and financial disparities, and sociocultural factors. This review examines the current state of breast cancer screening in Uganda, including epidemiology, screening methods, barriers to access, and recent innovations such as mobile screening units, task-shifting, and patient navigation programs. We explore the roles of institutional actors like the Uganda Cancer Institute and highlight the challenges that remain in expanding equitable screening coverage. Additionally, we propose pragmatic solutions to overcome these barriers, with a focus on policy interventions, resource mobilization, and community engagement to improve early detection and reduce breast cancer mortality. By synthesizing peer-reviewed studies, national reports, and program descriptions, this review offers valuable insights for strengthening breast cancer screening efforts in Uganda and improving health outcomes for women. Keywords: Breast cancer, Uganda, screening programs, early detection, health barriers, mobile screening.