INTRODUCTION:
Breast cancer remains the leading cancer among women in Ethiopia, with the majority of cases diagnosed at advanced stages due to limited awareness and poor access to early detection services. To address this gap, the Ministry of Health launched an innovative program integrating breast cancer early detection into Primary Health Care Units (PHCUs), aiming to expand equitable access and strengthen referral linkages across the health system.

OBJECTIVE:
To describe Ethiopia’s national initiative to scale up breast cancer early detection services through PHCUs and to share implementation progress, lessons learned, and opportunities for improving cancer control in low-resource settings.

METHODS:
A phased national strategy was initiated in 2025, focusing on capacity building of PHCU teams, service readiness, and community mobilization. Health workers were trained in clinical breast examination (CBE), early detection protocols, and referral procedures. Facilities received essential equipment and educational materials. Program performance was monitored through the national health information system and supportive supervision visits.

RESULTS:
To date, 302 health facilities have participated in the program, with 236 (78%) currently delivering breast cancer early detection services, including CBE and referral for diagnostic evaluation. Integration of these services at the PHCU level has significantly improved geographic access, strengthened community-health system linkages, and enhanced public awareness through national campaigns such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

CONCLUSIONS:
Ethiopia is pioneering the integration of breast cancer early detection within the primary health care platform, demonstrating that decentralization of cancer services is feasible and effective in low-resource settings. This approach establishes a sustainable foundation for early detection, improved clinical outcomes, and a replicable model for other low- and middle-income countries.