Knowledge and Practices on Breast Cancer among Bangladeshi Female University Students: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: Breast cancer (BC) is the leading and most prevalent form of cancer among women in Bangladesh and worldwide. The objectives of this study were to assess the existing knowledge on breast cancer and the practices of breast self-examination among female Bangladeshi university students. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out among the 276 female university students. Data were collected by face-to-face interview by using a pre-tested questionnaire.Results: The study results indicate that most of the participants were well informed about breast cancer. Predominantly mentioned signs of breast cancer was a lump in the breast followed by pain in the breast or nipple. The correct responses of breast cancer risk factors were exposure to radiation (58.20%), positive family history (47.6%), obesity (46.9%), lack of physical exercise (43.6%) and smoking (43.2%). The students were well informed about breast self-examination for early diagnosis, but they were not properly informed about frequency. Only 17% reported that they practiced breast self-examination. Respondent’s age, religion, marital status, having a problem in Breast and practices of breast self-examinations were significantly associated (p<0.05) with the knowledge scores in different aspects of breast cancer.Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the female students had inadequate knowledge on different aspects of BC and low compliance to recommended BSE practices. Initiating BC educational programs among university students is highly recommended for the early detection and treatment of this increasingly alarming disease.