Umbrella review finds 32% breast self-examination prevalence in low- and middle-income countries
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Key Takeaway
Note: BSE prevalence in LMICs is ~32%, but estimate has high heterogeneity.
This umbrella review synthesized systematic reviews and meta-analyses on breast self-examination (BSE) practice in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The analysis included data from 110,622 participants across LMICs, aiming to estimate the pooled prevalence of BSE and identify its determinants. No comparator was reported for this descriptive analysis.
The main finding was a pooled BSE prevalence of 32.15% (95% confidence interval: 22.61 to 40.75). The review also examined determinants of BSE practice, though specific results for these factors were not detailed in the provided data. A critical methodological note is the extremely high statistical heterogeneity among the included studies, quantified as I² = 100%, which substantially limits the precision and reliability of the pooled prevalence estimate.
Safety and tolerability outcomes related to BSE were not reported in this meta-analysis. The primary limitation is the marked heterogeneity, suggesting substantial variation in BSE prevalence across different LMIC settings and study populations. The evidence is observational, describing associations and practice patterns; it cannot establish causality for determinants or speak to the clinical effectiveness of BSE in improving health outcomes. The restrained practice relevance is that this figure provides a broad estimate of current BSE practice in LMICs, but local prevalence may vary widely.
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View Original Abstract ↓
Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face a dual burden of infectious and chronic diseases, including breast cancer. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a vital tool for early detection, improving outcomes, and reducing mortality. Assessing its prevalence and determinants in LMICs is crucial for enhancing early diagnosis and treatment.
A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar using PICO criteria to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses on breast self-examination in Low- and middle-income countries. Methodological quality was assessed using the AMSTAR tool. A random-effects meta-analysis pooled estimates, with heterogeneity (I2) and publication bias (funnel plot) evaluated. Forest plots presented pooled prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
This umbrella review included 10 studies (110,622 participants). The pooled BSE prevalence was 32.15% (confidence interval: 22.61–40.75), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 100%, p =
The prevalence of breast self-examination (BSE) in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) remains relatively low at 32.15%. Key factors influencing BSE practice include knowledge, attitudes, and family history of breast cancer. To enhance BSE practice, targeted strategies such as public awareness campaigns, training for healthcare providers, and incorporating family history assessments are essential. Additionally, strengthening research and policy initiatives can help address existing gaps in awareness, promote early detection, and improve breast cancer outcomes in low and middle-income countries.
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