Breast Cancer Awareness Research Articles

A Retrospective Data Analysis on the Breast Cancer Patients Epidemiology and Awareness in the Eastern Regions of Saudi Arabia

A Retrospective Data Analysis on the Breast Cancer Patients Epidemiology and Awareness in the Eastern Regions of Saudi Arabia

Referral and disease patterns of patients treated at the Nicosia General Hospital Breast Centre

Abstract Background Cyprus has one of the lowest mortality rates from breast cancer in Europe. The reasons behind this have not been investigated but it is speculated that the ease of access to Breast Centers in combination with an increased public awareness play a role. The aim of this study was to investigate referral and disease presentation patterns of patients treated at the Nicosia General Hospital (NGH) Breast Centre and define opportunities for effective public health interventions. Methods A retrospective study of all patients (585) with in situ or invasive breast cancer treated at the NGH Breast Centre between February 2017 and November 2023 was conducted. Data on referral sources, symptoms, and cancer stage at the time of diagnosis were analyzed using Stata 18. Results Most patients were referrals from the national population screening program (42.2%), followed by self-referrals (40.6%), and General Practitioner (GP)/or other specialist referrals (17.2%). Half of the patients (50.3%) were asymptomatic at diagnosis. In addition, 8% of the patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer were Stage I, 65% Stage II, and 27% Stage III. Conclusions Our study provides important insights forming the basis of public health activities for the early detection of breast cancer based on the fact that 20% of newly diagnosed breast cancer cases in Cyprus receive treatment in NGH Breast Center. Although adherence to the national population screening program does not meet desired expectations, a significant proportion of breast cancers were detected via this program highlighting its effectiveness in early detection of asymptomatic cancers. A large proportion of patients were self-referred underlining the high degree of breast cancer awareness in Cyprus but also the media-induced anxiety which leads to early investigations. Key messages • Screening program and breast cancer awareness campaigns are effective in detecting breast cancers early. • These activities should be sustained to further reduce breast cancer mortality rate.

Knowledge and Misinformation About Breast Cancer Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention Among Healthy and Affected Women: A Study on 2375 Italian Participants

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and remains the leading cause of death among Italian women. Despite increased breast cancer awareness and improved diagnostic techniques, mortality rates remain high globally. In Italy, despite the availability of screening programs by the National Health System (NHS) for all Italian women aged 50–69 every two years, the participation rate remains relatively low. The low uptake of screening may be attributed to a lack of general cancer knowledge among women, including awareness of risk factors, symptoms, and prevention measures. This study investigates the knowledge and misinformation in a population of Italian women regarding breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and prevention. Methods: From March 2021 to January 2022, we conducted a survey targeting the female population in Italy, with a total of 2375 participants willingly participating in the study. To investigate factors linked to variations in attitudes toward breast cancer, the participants were categorized into two groups: the general population (Group A, n = 2235) and women who have had or currently have breast cancer (Group B, n = 140). Statistically significant differences were identified between these two groups. Results: The findings revealed considerable confusion regarding both the symptoms and causes associated with cancer, as well as prevention measures. This confusion was particularly prominent among women in the general population and those with lower levels of education. Conclusions: Given these insights, it remains crucial to promote accurate health information concerning risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies related to this devastating disease, emphasizing the ongoing importance of disseminating correct health information.

Level of Awareness of Breast Cancer Among Adult Female in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Background: Breast cancer is the leading and most prevalent form of cancer among the women in Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to assess the level of awareness of the breast cancer among adult female. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 103 adult females in Out Patient Departments (OPDs) of Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Dhaka during July to December 2013. Data were collected purposively by face-to-face interview with a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 103 adult females participated in the study with the mean (±SD) age was 36.26±12.70. Majority 39(37.9%) of the respondents were in age group 29-39. Most 82(79.6%) of the participants were married, 90(87.4%) were housewives, 31(30.1%) were HSC qualified. Maximum 31(88.35%) respondents had average knowledge on breast cancer. Education and occupational status was found significantly associated with level of knowledge of the respondents. Conclusion: The overall knowledge of the respondents was found average. As it is a major health burden in women and incidence is very high in Bangladesh concern authority should take necessary action to adopt measures to increase the awareness on breast cancer. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 57 No (1) June 2024, pp 14-21

Barriers to Follow-Up of an Abnormal Clinical Breast Examination in Uttar Pradesh, India: A Qualitative Study.

To understand key barriers to diagnostic follow-up for women with an abnormal clinical breast examination (CBE) at the primary care level in the Uttar Pradesh state in India. We also explored acceptability of mobile phones to address barriers to CBE follow-up for women. We conducted 28 semistructured in-depth interviews with 12 women with an abnormal CBE at the primary health facility who did not have diagnostic follow-up, four community health workers, nine health care providers from health facilities in rural and urban settings, and three state-level decision makers. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated from Hindi to English. Thematic analysis was conducted using Dedoose qualitative software. Themes were organized by multilevel barriers to follow-up. Key barriers to CBE follow-up included knowledge, fear, and stigma about breast cancer; women's health not being prioritized in the family; discomfort seeing male providers; and difficulty navigating the diagnostic facility. Despite community education and outreach efforts by community health workers (known as Accredited Social Health Activists), lack of awareness of breast cancer and the importance of follow-up for abnormal CBE remains a barrier to early detection. Despite widespread access to mobile phones, perceived acceptability varied among stakeholders regarding mobile phone use for breast health education and communication with clients. Knowledge, cultural, and health system barriers challenge women's ability to follow recommendations for diagnostic follow-up of an abnormal CBE. Multilevel and gender-responsive strategies are needed to address these barriers. Our results suggest that mobile phones could be used to further improve breast health awareness, patient navigation, and tracking, and further research is needed.

Evaluating the Use of Breast Self-Examination (BSE) for Recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Among Jordanian Students and Workers in Medical Fields.

Globally, breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly detected neoplasm in women. Breast self-examination (BSE) is an effective screening technique that enables women to learn about the composition of their breasts and assist in the early identification of any potential breast abnormalities. This study aimed to assess the degree of BSE knowledge and attention among Jordanian females who are students or professionals in medical disciplines. Participants' knowledge about BSE and related issues was assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. The study invites participation from all females aged 18 and above, through both an online and in-person survey. The study extended invitations to female university students in Jordan across academic levels I, II, III, IV, V, and VI. A scoring system was employed, and the statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 20.0). The study had 946 female participants, with 98.41% of them being single. Low BSE practice was reported among 90.49% of the participants (n = 856) and this demonstrated a weak understanding of BC disease, including its possible risks, methods of detection, diagnosis, treatment, signs and symptoms, as well as knowledge about mammography and other related information. Only 27.27% (n = 258) of participants practice BSE once a month and on a regular basis. BC is considered the most prevalent malignant condition and the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths for women in Jordan. Screening strategies are essential for promptly identifying breast cancer and reducing the associated illness and death rates. It is recommended that women commence performing BSE starting at the age of 18. Furthermore, it is essential to incorporate a learning outcome in the cancer chapters that are directly relevant to the subject of BC and emphasize the significance of BSE for students pursuing a career in the medical area.

Adjustment of the Height Triangular Fuzzy Regression as Early Awareness of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most popular malignancy among Malaysian women. In Malaysia, approximately one in every 19 women is at risk. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Malaysian women (32.9%), followed by colorectal (11.9%) and ovarian cancers (7.2%). Many cases are found to be advanced, with considerable tumour development or metastasis to untreatable locations and unaware of the factors. This study aims to determine the best height triangular fuzzy regression model by adjustment between 0 – 1 and measure the value of statistical error using mean square error (MSE) and root mean square error (RMSE). Secondary data was used where 569 patients having BREAST cancer and receiving treatment in hospitals was recorded by nurses and doctors. The patient data for breast cancer were analysed using MATLAB, SPSS, and Microsoft Excel. Based on the results, H = 0 of fuzzy linear regression is the best model to predict the breast cancer awareness with lowest value of MSE and RMSE by 1.455 and 1.206 respectively. Malaysians must be aware of the warning factors of breast cancer to increase survival and minimise death rates.

Abstract B111: A needs assessment of genetic and hereditary breast cancer awareness in Southern California women diagnosed with a genetic mutation

Abstract Background: Breast cancer is a global public health dilemma, considering the public awareness the issue has garnered over the years it continues to be diagnosed in advanced stages. Genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Literature findings have identified the lack of knowledge surrounding genetic breast cancer susceptibility. Methods: In partnership with Southern California Chapter of The Breasties (SoCal Breasties), an all inclusive nonprofit organization that creates a community for survivors, previvors, thrivers, and caregivers impacted by breast and gynecological cancers, 20 women with a breast cancer related genetic mutation diagnosis were surveyed in a cross-sectional study to determine the need for health education on breast cancer genetic susceptibility. Of the 20 women surveyed, the racial/ethnic identities of the respondents is as follows: 10% identified as Asian American/Pacific Islander; 5% identified as Black; 35% identified as Hispanic/Latinx; 5% identified as “Mixed Race: Black, White”; 40% identified as White; and 5% identified as Ashkenazi Jewish, White. Results: 70% of survey respondents identified not having adequate knowledge of genetic breast cancer susceptibility prior to diagnosis. When looking at racial and ethnic groups, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian American/Pacific Islander women made up 71% of the population that lacked proper knowledge of the topic when compared to their white counterparts. 75% identified health education as the most needed resource for genetic breast cancer susceptibility. When asked to share one piece of insight, the most common sentiment expressed was “Knowledge is Power.”Conclusions: There is a need for greater health education on genetic breast cancer susceptibility, especially in racial and ethnic minority populations. Health educators and public health professionals should consider generating awareness campaigns and partnering with community based organizations to disseminate proper knowledge. In addition, resources and awareness campaigns should be culturally tailored and linguistically appropriate to meet the needs of all racial and ethnic groups. Citation Format: Dayanara Ruiz. A needs assessment of genetic and hereditary breast cancer awareness in Southern California women diagnosed with a genetic mutation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B111.

Evaluation of a pre-post quasi-experimental educational intervention on breast cancer awareness among pharmacy professionals in Karachi, Pakistan.

Cancer, particularly breast cancer, is a major contributor to mortality and a significant impediment to life expectancy. In 2020, breast cancer accounted for 11.7% of all cancer cases and caused approximately 685,000 deaths worldwide, surpassing lung cancer in prevalence. The study aims to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on breast cancer awareness among pharmacy students by comparing their understanding before and after the program. A pre-post quasi-experimental study was designed to assess knowledge and awareness of breast cancer, breast self-examination (BSE) practices, and attitudes toward breast cancer among female university students in Karachi, Pakistan. Participants completed a pre-session questionnaire, attended an awareness workshop and video tutorial, and then completed a post-session questionnaire 2 weeks later. Of 1,200 participants, 1,015 of them completed both the pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Key demographic features included 83.9% of the participants being in the 18-24 age group, 26.8% being married, and only 14.2% having a family history of breast cancer. Before the intervention, 60.7% of the participants were not involved in regular breast self-exams due to a lack of awareness. Post-intervention results showed a significant increase in awareness, with 35.9% rising to 94.9%. The use of screening methods increased from 46.7 to 94.8%. Knowledge of breast cancer improved from 51.2 to 96.7%, and the general perception rose from 48.2 to 93.4%. Attitudes toward self-examination also shifted positively, indicating a significant change in perception. The study concludes the baseline knowledge of breast cancer among female students was inadequate but improved significantly from over 40% to over 90% following the educational intervention. The intervention positively influenced the general perception and attitudes toward breast cancer. These findings highlight the need for regular educational sessions to enhance awareness, improve healthcare outcomes, and reduce mortality rates, particularly in developing countries.

“Mammograms are kind of my pacifier”: The cultural context of women's preference for annual mammograms in a risk-based screening cohort

Population genetic testing and risk-based screening have the potential to shift how we determine risk and screen for breast cancer. While much attention has been paid to the experiences of individuals who may be at elevated risk for breast cancer, less is known about how those at average risk make decisions about their health. Through qualitative interviews with 30 participants, we explore how those enrolled in a risk-based screening trial who are determined to be at average risk for breast cancer make screening decisions. We consider how the social context of breast health, known as ‘pink ribbon culture,’ and the pervasiveness of annual mammography as the standard of care make risk-based screening less acceptable for many participants. Risk-based screening paradigms assume that individuals will assess their risk quantitatively based on the risk models that are used. Yet, our findings demonstrate that social and cultural factors influence decision-making surrounding breast cancer screening, an important consideration when implementing risk-based screening programs. We will begin to address a gap in knowledge about how women who are told they are average risk after risk-based screening (most of the population) and recommended to screen less than annually make screening decisions.

Analysing The Breast Cancer Awareness Of Public Health Care Management In India

One of the most prevalent types of cancer impacting women worldwide is breast cancer. Breast cancer in women is a significant global public health issue because of its high rate of morbidity and mortality as well as its substantial social and financial costs. The number of new cases and fatalities from breast cancer is rising year, contributing to the disease's growing global burden. In India, breast cancer ranks second in terms of cancer-related fatalities among women and is the most common cancer. However, the percentage is undoubtedly higher in America, where one in eight people get this potentially fatal cancer. According to the Population Based Cancer Registry of India, between 25% and 31% of all malignancies in women in urban areas (such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Ahmadabad, Bangalore, Bhopal, etc.) are breast cancers. Although the rise in breast cancer cases is mostly reported in large cities, it is very likely that many cases go unreported in rural areas. The average age at which breast cancer is diagnosed has dropped from 50–70 years to 30–50 years. Millions of people can be assisted in lowering the risk of breast cancer by receiving the right information and treatment under the direction of professionals. Therefore, this study aims to investigate practitioners' opinions regarding the implementation of the awareness model in the health sector as well as the public's perspective of the models for women suffering breast cancer.

Generative artificial intelligence as a source of breast cancer information for patients: Proceed with caution.

This study evaluated the accuracy, clinical concordance, and readability of the chatbot interface generative pretrained transformer (ChatGPT) 3.5 as a source of breast cancer information for patients. Twenty questions that patients are likely to ask ChatGPT were identified by breast cancer advocates. These were posed to ChatGPT 3.5 in July 2023 and were repeated three times. Responses were graded in two domains: accuracy (4-point Likert scale, 4=worst) and clinical concordance (information is clinically similar to physician response; 5-point Likert scale, 5=not similar at all). The concordance of responses with repetition was estimated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of word counts. Response readability was calculated using the Flesch Kincaid readability scale. References were requested and verified. The overall average accuracy was 1.88 (range 1.0-3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.42-1.94), and clinical concordance was 2.79 (range 1.0-5.0; 95% CI, 1.94-3.64). The average word count was 310 words per response (range, 146-441 words per response) with high concordance (ICC, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.59-0.91; p<.001). The average readability was poor at 37.9 (range, 18.0-60.5) with high concordance (ICC, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.57-0.90; p<.001). There was a weak correlation between ease of readability and better clinical concordance (-0.15; p=.025). Accuracy did not correlate with readability (0.05; p=.079). The average number of references was 1.97 (range, 1-4; total, 119). ChatGPT cited peer-reviewed articles only once and often referenced nonexistent websites (41%). Because ChatGPT 3.5 responses were incorrect 24% of the time and did not provide real references 41% of the time, patients should be cautioned about using ChatGPT for medical information.

Breast Cancer Awareness and Lifestyle: A Call to Public Health Action

Breast Cancer Awareness and Lifestyle: A Call to Public Health Action

To Close the Gap of Survivorship Education: A Series of Breast Cancer Webinars in Collaboration with Wellspring

Background and Aims: Breast cancer survivors face uncertainties post-treatment, requiring ongoing support and education. Digital media online training courses may be used to disseminate evidence-based cancer information. In this study, we hosted a series of webinars which aimed to empower survivors with evidence-based survivorship information. Materials and Methods: A four-part weekly online webinar series (1 hour each) including expert presentations, survivor insights, and interactive question-and-answer sessions, was held in October 2023 during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, via the Zoom digital platform. Topics covered included surveillance, mental health, adjuvant antihormonal therapy, and sexual health. After the webinar series, participants completed a post-webinar survey electronically. The post-webinar survey assessed participant satisfaction, understanding of topics, and suggestions for improvement. Likert scales were used to measure self-reported changes in understanding of the discussed topics. Results: 99 participants took part in the Breast Survivorship and Surveillance webinar, 97 participated in the Mental Health in Breast Survivorship webinar, 108 participated in the Adjuvant Antihormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer webinar, and 74 participated in the Sexual Health after Breast Cancer webinar. 25 participants completed the post-webinar survey, administered after the final webinar (sexual health). Among the 25 survey participants, 96% (24/25) expressed that the information presented in the series of webinars was very useful or extremely useful. Furthermore, 80% (20/25) noted significant knowledge improvement. Conclusions: This breast cancer webinar series effectively bridges the knowledge gap in survivorship, offering valuable insights, emotional support, and practical guidance. The results emphasize the importance of ongoing education and support for breast cancer survivors.

Influence of Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Public Interest of Breast Cancer in High-Income Countries Between 2012 and 2022: Google Trends Analysis.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. High-income countries have a greater incidence and mortality rate of breast cancer than low-income countries. As a result, raising awareness about breast cancer is crucial in increasing the chances of early detection and treatment. Social media has evolved into an essential tool for Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaigns, allowing people to share their breast cancer stories and experiences while also providing a venue for education and support. The aim of this study was to assess the level of public interest in searches linked to breast cancer among a sample of high-income nations with a sizable internet user base from 2012 to 2022. We also sought to compare the proportional search volume for breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month with that during other months of the year. Google Trends was used to retrieve data on internet user search behaviors in the context of breast cancer from 2012 to 2022. Seven countries were evaluated in this study: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, in addition to global data. Breast cancer relative search volume trends were analyzed annually, monthly, and weekly from 2012 to 2022. The annual percent change (APC) was calculated for each country and worldwide. Monthly and weekly data were used to identify potential trends. A fluctuating pattern in APC rates was observed, with a notable increase in 2018 and a significant decrease in 2020, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Monthly analysis revealed a consistent peak in search volume during October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) each year. Weekly trends over a 20-year period indicated significant decreases in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States, while increases were noted in Ireland. Heatmap analysis further highlighted a consistent elevation in median search volume during October across all countries. These findings underscore the impact of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and suggest potential influences of governmental COVID-19 pandemic control measures in 2020 on internet search behavior.

The effect of breast cancer awareness interventions on young women aged 18-50 years: A systematic review.

A scarcity of research has examined the effect of breast cancer awareness (BCA) interventions among young women (18-50 years). This overlooks important differences that may affect BCA levels such as education preferences within this younger cohort. Younger women are more likely than older women to present with aggressive subtypes of breast cancer if they develop the disease, and at a more advanced stage translating into poorer survival. It is therefore worthy to investigate which interventions have a significantly positive effect on BCA within this cohort. Five studies were deemed eligible for review. Despite differing intervention methods, theoretical applications and awareness targets, positive outcomes were reported across all designs. However, the evidence is weak in investigating the effectiveness of BCA interventions on this cohort and is considered as inconclusive with such a small number of available studies to review, highlighting a need for further research in this area.

Investigation of the Relationship Between Breast Cancer Awareness and Health Literacy in Female Textile Workers

Introduction: The level of breast cancer awareness among female may vary depending on their level of health literacy. Aim: It was aimed to investigate the relationship between breast cancer awareness and health literacy among female textile workers. Method: This study was a cross-sectional study. The study population consisted of female employed as workers in a textile company. The sample included 360 female workers as participants. The Information Form, the Breast Cancer Awareness Scale, and the Health Literacy Scale are the data collection instruments used in the study. Independent samples t-test, ANOVA, and regression analyses were used to evaluate the data. Results: The results were that 73.6% of the participants did not perform regular breast self-examination, and 55.3% had information on early diagnosis and treatment. Signifiant positive correlations were observed between women's breast cancer awareness and the functional (r = 0.135; p = 0.011), interactive (r = 0.145; p = 0.006), and critical (r = 0.156; p = 0.003) sub-scales of health literacy. According regression analysis to the established model, an increase in health literacy scores corresponded to increased breast cancer awareness, explaining 3.9% of the variation. Conclusion: It was revealed that as the health literacy of working female increases, breast cancer awareness will increase. Therefore, the focus should be on supporting the health literacy of women in the risk group, reaching more women in collective institutions and breast cancer awareness activities.

Prevalence, Awareness, and Attitudes towards Breast Cancer among Women in Southeast Nigeria

Background: Breast cancer is a significant health challenge in Southeast Nigeria, contributing to high morbidity and mortality among women. Factors such as limited access to healthcare, lack of awareness, and cultural stigmas exacerbate the burden, leading to late-stage diagnosis and poor survival rates. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence, awareness, and attitudes towards breast cancer among women in Southeast Nigeria, and to identify the risk factors and preventive measures practiced in this region. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted in Southeast Nigeria. A stratified sampling method was used to select participants from urban and rural areas. Data were collected from 360 women using a structured. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations were utilized for data analysis. Results: Awareness of breast cancer was high (96.67%), primarily obtained through the internet/social media (43.51%) and healthcare professionals (19.18%). However, knowledge about risk factors and symptoms was moderate to low, with only 14.17% considering themselves very knowledgeable. Regular breast self-examinations were practised by 30.28%, while 69.72% had never undergone clinical breast examinations. The prevalence of breast cancer diagnosis was 16.39%. Attitudes towards screening were positive, with 71.11% strongly agreeing that regular screening aids early detection. Despite this, confidence in identifying symptoms was low, with only 3.33% feeling very confident. Conclusions: The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge and practices related to breast cancer despite high awareness levels. There is an urgent need for targeted educational programs to enhance knowledge about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of regular screening. Improving healthcare access and addressing cultural barriers are crucial for early detection and better outcomes.

Awareness about Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination among Undergraduate Female Students at the University of Agadir, Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study.

Breast cancer is a pressing public health issue globally and in Morocco, with rising cases among women. This study aims to evaluate breast cancer awareness and self-examination practices among female university students, informing future educational interventions. A cross-sectional study surveyed 437 students at Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, using a questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge of breast cancer, risk factors, symptoms, and breast self-examination (BSE). Results showed high awareness of breast cancer (95.3%), with social networks and media being primary information sources. However, only 48.25% had intermediate knowledge levels, and BSE awareness was moderate (60.8%) with low practical skills (28.0%). Reasons for not performing BSE included lack of knowledge and discomfort. Significant associations were found between knowledge levels and age, year of study, study options, and information sources. Despite high awareness, there is a crucial need to enhance knowledge about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and BSE practices among young women in Morocco. Educational programs targeting university students are essential for promoting early detection and improving attitudes toward breast health.

Breast cancer preventive practices and associated factors among reproductive age women in Wadila District, North East Ethiopia: community based cross-sectional study

BackgroundCancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among all cancer types, breast cancer stands out as the most common and is characterized by distinct molecular characteristics. This disease poses a growing public health concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries where it is associated with high mortality rates. Despite these challenges, there is a paucity of data on breast cancer preventive practices and associated factors among reproductive-age women in Wollo, Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the level of breast cancer awareness, preventive practices, and associated factors among women of reproductive age residing in Wadila district, Wollo, Ethiopia in the year 2022.MethodA cross-sectional community-based study involving 352 women of reproductive age in Wadila district was carried out between May and June 2022. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique, and data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23 software. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine the odds ratio for variable associations, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.ResultThe prevalence of breast-examination among women of reproductive age was determined to be 40.1% (95% Interval [CI]: 34.94–45.18). Factors such as educational status (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.13–0.6), income (AOR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.11–0.33), and family history of breast conditions in reproductive-age women (AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.08–3.34) were significantly linked to the practice of breast self-examination in this population.ConclusionThe study highlighted a decline in regular breast self-examination among women of reproductive age. It revealed that the reduced frequency of regular breast self-examination was a prevalent concern among women in this age group and the broader community. Educational level, monthly income, and family history of cancer among women of reproductive age were identified as significant factors linked to the practice of regular breast examination.