Knowledge and screening practices for breast cancer among women of reproductive age in Akodo town, Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a major global health concern, especially in developing regions like Nigeria. This study addresses the knowledge gap, screening practices, and associated factors related to BC among women of reproductive age in Akodo town, Lagos, Nigeria. It is crucial to explore this aspect of women's health as early detection through screening is vital in reducing mortality rates associated with BC. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted for this study using women of reproductive age living in Akodo town. A total of 320 respondents was recruited through multistage sampling technique. SPSS was used for data analysis. Results: Most respondents (232, 80%) were aware of BC, of which only 122, (52.6%) knew about at least one screening method. About half, 125 (53.9%) had good knowledge of BC. Only 25% had good screening practice of BC, with 47 (84.5%) having done self-breast examination (SBE) only, 2 (3.4%) had had clinical breast examination (CBE) only, 6 (10.3%) had done both SBE and CBE, while only one (1.7%) had ever had a mammogram. Knowledge of screening methods as well as age below 40 years [OR=2.76; 95% CI (1.00-7.58), OR=2.97; 95% CI (1.09-8.11)] were associated with good screening practices. Conclusions: Though awareness about BC has significantly increased, screening practices is still very low. Hence, knowledge about the various screening practices needs to be scaled up, and probably incentives should probably be given to those who go for screening.