Perspectives and Attitudes of Jordanian Male College Students on Breast Cancer Screening.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the attitudes of young Jordanian men towards breast cancer screening practices. A qualitative descriptive design informed by Clendenin and Connelly was used. Thirty-seven in-depth semi-structured individual audiotaped interviews were conducted. The analysis of the men's attitudes toward breast cancer captures the perception that breast cancer is an illness that occurs mainly later in life. This was associated with the perception of negative impact of cancer diagnosis on a young woman's social status and family role. Men believed that breast cancer preventive practices must be performed in a similar context of women's religious and cultural background. Younger generations are in need for health education related to breast cancer and its screening. It is important to provide support and guidance for young men to be more involved in providing early detection of breast cancer.