Abstract:

Abstract This study aims to reveal the aspects that influence the occurrence of breast cancer, with a view to enhancing preventive practices. This is a qualitative study carried out with six professionals, four nurses and two physicians, in the first half of 2016, at a Primary Healthcare Unit in Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. A semi-structured interview was performed, and the interpretation was guided by thematic content analysis. Three categories emerged: The understanding of professionals about the importance of breast cancer screening; How do breast cancer screenings take place in the health unit; and Difficulties for the effectiveness of breast cancer screening. Professionals recognize the importance of screening in prevention and early diagnosis, but they have difficulties implementing it. There is prejudice in conducting clinical breast examination with male professionals and there are management problems, such as the low availability of mammograms. Despite this, professionals recognize the importance of screening in the prevention and early diagnosis of breast cancer, in order to contribute to less invasive and crippling treatments.

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