External breast prostheses after mastectomy: production and selection of a low-cost functional model to be performed in developing countries.

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women. Despite advancements in early diagnosis, neoadjuvant therapy, and various treatment modalities, mastectomy remains a common procedure for many women. Although some women opt for reconstructive surgery (BR), many do not have the indication, desire, or opportunity to undergo this procedure. Methods: An easily manufactured, washable, lightweight, and inexpensive external breast prosthesis (EBP) model was developed specifically for the study. Participants were presented with five EBP models-one commercially available, three manufactured options, and one created for the study-and were asked to choose a prosthesis. We also evaluated the factors associated with non-adherence to EBP among women who had undergone mastectomy without BR. The chi-square test was used to assess adherence or non-adherence to EBP, while logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with non-adherence. Results: We introduced a low-cost, lightweight, washable EBP model. When participants were asked to choose between two prostheses, the silicone prosthesis was the first choice for 33.9% of the participants, while the prosthesis created for the study emerged as the second choice for 70.5%. Out of the 72 women assessed, 45.8% (33) opted not to use any of the EBP models. Our analysis revealed that age and BMI were significantly associated with non-use of EBP. Conclusion: Multiple barriers contribute to non-adherence to EBP, underscoring the need for interventions aimed at improving patient knowledge and adherence. This study introduces a lightweight, easily reproducible, and low-cost EBP model.