As part of the Breast Cancer AKAZI 2 project, ASRT Limited conducted an orientation session for Health Surveillance Assistants (HSAs) from five health facilities in Malawi. The facilities included Mpingo H/C, Mpemba H/C, Nancholi H/C, Pensulo H/C, and Madziabango H/C.
The orientation aimed to equip HSAs with standardized breast cancer key messages and operational referral steps, enabling them to promote breast cancer awareness and link symptomatic women into the facility referral pathway. The objectives of the orientation were to deliver core knowledge on breast cancer epidemiology, common signs/symptoms, risk factors, and tackle myths, teach HSAs how to communicate breast health key messages to women and communities, and demonstrate basic clinical breast examination (CBE) concepts and safe counselling.
HSAs are critical frontline health workers for community-level health education and awareness, and this orientation will enhance their capacity to promote breast cancer awareness and early detection in their communities.