Barriers and enablers to breast cancer screening in rural South Africa

Background: The breast cancer burden on the South African healthcare system is severe, with rural South African women often diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease. South Africa’s rural areas are classified as low-resource settings with limited medical services and infrastructure. The impact of breast cancer on rural communities in South Africa requires ongoing research to better understand the severity of this disease among one of the most vulnerable populations. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the barriers and enablers of breast cancer screening among rural South African women. Method: An exploratory qualitative study was utilised. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 22 rural South African women. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. This study utilised the care-seeking behaviour theory as its theoretical framework. Results: Participants identified many barriers to breast cancer screening, including individual affordability, transportation, rural services, infrastructure, health professional behaviour, and the lack of educational materials. Several factors are suggested to enable the screening of breast cancer in rural South Africa, including breast cancer campaigns, health education, the involvement of key stakeholders, and promotional materials. Conclusion: Despite the many barriers to breast cancer screening among rural South African women, there is still hope in implementing the various promotional tools outlined in this study and ensuring that breast self-examination is an alternative, affordable screening method. Contribution: The purpose of this article is to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which focusses reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, including cancer.