Adolescent girls' knowledge of and attitudes toward breast self-examination: evaluating an outreach education program.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of a one-hour educational intervention to increase knowledge about and improve attitudes towards breast self-examination (BSE) and early cancer detection among adolescent girls. The sample used in this quasi-experimental study was selected from schools participating in an education program provided by a regional health education center. The instrument and scales used in the study were developed and pilot-tested for reliability and validity in the area schools prior to the start of the study. The sample consisted of 137 adolescent girls who provided consent forms and participated in the intervention. The comparison group, which consisted of students attending the same schools, was scheduled to receive the intervention at a later date. Findings suggest that a one-hour lesson can improve knowledge and attitudes of adolescent girls with respect to BSE and early cancer detection. Suggestions for further research are discussed.