ENCOURAGING BEHAVIOR IN REDUCING BREAST CANCER PREVENTION TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES (ANALYSIS WITH A QUALITATIVE APPROACH)

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death for women in developing countries, especially due to limitations in the implementation of a healthy lifestyle as a preventive measure. This study aims to identify and analyze behavioral factors that encourage the adoption of a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of breast cancer in developing countries. Using the systematic literature review method with a qualitative approach, this study synthesizes the findings of 20 scientific articles that meet the inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using thematic synthesis techniques and the Health Belief Model framework approach. The results of the study show that the factors of self-efficacy, social support, health literacy, and cues to action have a significant role in influencing preventive behavior. On the other hand, barriers such as social stigma, low education, limited access to health services, and economic conditions are the main inhibiting factors. Multi-modal educational interventions, community-based approaches, and the integration of preventive services in primary health systems have been shown to be effective in increasing awareness and healthy behaviors. In conclusion, the adoption of a healthy lifestyle in breast cancer prevention is strongly influenced by complex psychosocial and structural dynamics. It is recommended that governments and health workers develop intervention models that are contextual, evidence-based, and take into account local socio-cultural characteristics to improve the effectiveness of health promotion and reduce the burden of breast cancer in developing countries.