DETERMINANTS OF EXTERNAL BREAST PROSTHESIS UTILIZATION AMONG FEMALE BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS IN MACHAKOS LEVEL 5 HOSPITAL, MACHAKOS COUNTY, KENYA

VINCENT KWENDO ESITAMBALE; ANTHONY WANYORO; LISTER ONSONGO

VINCENT KWENDO ESITAMBALE Student, Master of Science (Oncology Nursing), Community Health and Reproductive Health Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya
ANTHONY WANYORO, PhD Lecturer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya
LISTER ONSONGO, PhD Lecturer, Department of Community and reproductive Health, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Keywords: Social Demographics Characteristics, Socio Economic Factors, Knowledge, Utilization of EBPs

Abstract

The utilization of External Breast Prostheses (EBP) among female breast cancer survivor’s post-mastectomy (BCSs) is influenced by a complex interplay of patient-related, healthcare provider and systemic factors. Patient-related factors such as age, socioeconomic status, body image, comfort and health literacy play a crucial role in the decision to use EBPs. Younger women might prefer reconstructive surgery while those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face affordability issues. The impact on body image and self-esteem combined with the comfort and convenience of using a prosthesis significantly affects utilization. Healthcare provider factors such as recommendations, knowledge and effective communication are vital in guiding patients towards using EBPs. Systemic factors such as EBPs availability and accessibility, insurance coverage and cultural attitudes also play a significant role. The main aim of this study was to investigate the determinants of EBPs utilization among female Breast Cancer Survivors (BCSs) after undergoing mastectomy in Machakos level 5 hospital (ML5H) in Kenya. A total of 69 breast cancer survivors were included in the study. Results showed that 31.9% were aged between 41 to 50 years, 59.4% were residing in rural areas, 56.5% had secondary level education and 82.6% had medical insurance cover. The utilization of EBP was 44.9%. Residing in urban area (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 8.15, 95%CI: 2.13 – 31.24, p =0.002), having medical cover (aOR =6.41, 95%CI:1.11 – 25.42, p =0.019) and having adequate knowledge (aOR=5.54, 95%CI: 1.05 – 29.32, p =0.044) were key factors influencing EBP utilization. Thus, there need to enhance EBP use, focus on increasing awareness, improving insurance coverage and ensuring accessible services in both urban and rural areas.

Author Biographies

VINCENT KWENDO ESITAMBALE, Student, Master of Science (Oncology Nursing), Community Health and Reproductive Health Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Student, Master of Science (Oncology Nursing), Community Health and Reproductive Health Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

ANTHONY WANYORO, PhD, Lecturer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Lecturer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

LISTER ONSONGO, PhD, Lecturer, Department of Community and reproductive Health, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Lecturer, Department of Community and reproductive Health, School of Health Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

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