Bridging knowledge gaps in breast cancer prevention: Insights from Ethiopia

Abstract

This editorial comment on the article by Agidew et al in the recent issue of the World Journal of Clinical Oncology. Breast cancer remains a growing challenge in Ethiopia, where high mortality results from low awareness, delayed diagnosis, and restricted healthcare access. Agidew et al report that women with a family history of breast disease exhibit significantly higher levels of knowledge (83.9% vs 10.5%), more positive attitudes (49% vs 32.1%), and greater engagement in preventive practices (74.1% vs 16.7%). However, with 69%-79% of women living below the poverty line, socioeconomic barriers severely limit preventive actions. Education, income, and community health insurance emerge as key predictors of health behaviors. We propose integrated interventions including deploying community-based approaches, culturally tailored education, and artificial intelligence-powered education tools, to bridge knowledge gaps and transform awareness into action. This multifaceted strategy offers a scalable model for resource-limited settings globally, addressing both individual awareness and structural barriers to improve breast cancer outcomes.

Keywords: Breast cancer prevention; Health equity; Socioeconomic determinants; Global health; Ethiopia

Core Tip: In Ethiopia, a study reveals that family history (FH) significantly boosts awareness and preventive practices among women, with those reporting FH demonstrating 83.9% knowledge compared to only 10.5% among those without. However, 69%-79% of participants live below the poverty line, underscoring critical socioeconomic barriers. Education, income, and insurance emerge as strong predictors of positive outcomes, suggesting that expanding community health insurance could be a pivotal strategy. This editorial advocates for deploying community-based approaches, culturally tailored education, and AI-powered education tools, to bridge knowledge gaps in resource-limited settings and transform awareness into action globally.