Breast Cancer Awareness Program Research Articles

Self-screening practice of breast cancer and associated factors among female students in Ethiopian universities using the theory of planned behavior: a cross sectional study

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most common cancer among females. Assessing self-screening practices for breast cancer patients is vital for developing targeted interventions. The current study aimed to assess self-screening practices for breast cancer and associated factors via the theory of planned behavior constructs among female students in Ethiopian universities.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was conducted using the theory of planned behavior constructs. The data were collected from January 30, 2022, to February 30, 2022, in Ethiopia. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used. The validity and reliability tests were checked to use the questionnaire in the main study through a pilot test. The data were collected through online Google Forms by distributing them to university students via Telegram groups, Imo, emails, and Facebook. The collected data were exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Bivariate analysis was used to identify the candidate variables for multiple logistic regression (P value < 0.02). Those variables with a P value less than 0.05 were considered significant predictors of breast cancer screening practices.ResultsA total of 418 female students participated in the study. The respondents were aged between 18 and 37 years. In the current study, 318 (76.1%; 95% CI: 72.0, 80.4) university students had good screening practices for breast cancer. Nonhealth-related departments (AOR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.11, 3.44), having training in breast cancer self-examination (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.04, 3.35), having a good attitude (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.11, 3.47), having good behavioral control (AOR = 4.1; 95% CI: 2.18, 7.71), and having good behavioral intentions (AOR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.09, 3.24) were associated with self-screening practices for breast cancer patients.ConclusionDesigning a theory of planned behavior-based educational interventions improve self-screening practices for breast cancer among university female students. These insights could guide the development of future breast cancer awareness and prevention programs in university settings, with the goal of increasing early detection rates and lowering the risk of breast cancer. The study also serves as foundational information for designing future research using more advanced study design methods.

Socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions influencing diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among women in Ghana: a systematic review

BackgroundBreast cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Ghana and the leading cause of cancer mortality among women. Few published empirical evidence exist on cultural beliefs and perceptions about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Ghana. This systematic review sought to map evidence on the socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions influencing the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among Ghanaian women.MethodsThis review was conducted following the methodological guideline of Joanna Briggs Institute and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses. The literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL via EBSCOhost, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase. Studies that were conducted on cultural, religious, and spiritual beliefs were included. The included studies were screened by title, abstract, and full text by three reviewers. Data were charted and results were presented in a narrative synthesis form.ResultsAfter the title, abstract, and full-text screening, 15 studies were included. Three categories were identified after the synthesis of the charted data. The categories included: cultural, religious and spiritual beliefs and misconceptions about breast cancer. The cultural beliefs included ancestral punishment and curses from the gods for wrongdoing leading to breast cancer. Spiritual beliefs about breast cancer were attributed to spiritual or supernatural forces. People had the religious belief that breast cancer is a test from God and they resorted to prayers for healing. Some women perceived that breast cancer is caused by spider bites, heredity, extreme stress, trauma, infections, diet, or lifestyle.ConclusionThis study adduces evidence of the socio-cultural beliefs that impact on the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among women in Ghana. Taking into consideration the diverse cultural and traditional beliefs about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, there is a compelling need to intensify nationwide public education on breast cancer to clarify the myths and misconceptions about the disease. We recommend the need to incorporate socio-cultural factors influencing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment into breast cancer awareness programs, education, and interventions in Ghana.

Abstract PS13-02: Clinical Outcome and Patients’ Characteristics of Breast Cancer Diagnosed During Pregnancy: A Retrospective Single Institutional Study

Abstract Background: Breast cancer (BC) is considered the second most common malignancy affecting pregnant women. Treatment of this condition is complex due to the potential risks it poses to both the fetus and mother. In this study, we report on the incidence, clinicopathological characteristics, management, and the outcomes of patients diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy in a tertiary care institution in Saudi Arabia. Patients and methods: This is a single-institution retrospective cohort analysis. We reviewed the medical records of all breast cancer cases in pregnant women that were diagnosed and treated at a a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia, during the period from 2001 to 2017. We used Fisher’s exact test, chi-square, and Kaplan-Meier (KM) method for various analyses. Demographic data, treatment received, response, and prognostic factors were analyzed. The study was approved by the institutional review board at our center. Results: One hundred seventy-three patients met the search criteria. Median age at diagnosis was 34 (IQR: 30 – 38) years. Of these patients, 100 (58%) had invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), 42 (24%) had IDC with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and 15 (20%) had other types. One hundred forty-two (82%) had pathological grades 2 and 3. Hormone receptors were positive in 90 (52%) patients, negative in 79 (45.7) patients and unknown in 4 (2.3%) patients. Her2/neu receptor status was positive in 67 (38.7%) patients and negative in 96(55.5%) patients. Forty five (26%) patients had triple negative disease.Stages I, II,III and IV were identified in 7(4%), 47 (27.2%), 54 (31.3%) and 51 (29.5%) patients respectively. Ninety (52%) and 75 (43%) patients received neoadjuvant and adjuvant anthracycline, platinum or taxane based chemotherapy. After being implemented in different international and our institutional guidelines, anti-Her2/neu therapies were given in 35 (20.2%) patients. The median overall survival (OS) was 127 months. Univariate analysis had shown statistically significant correlation between clinical stage, hormonal status, and overall survival. Conclusion: Breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy is associated with poor outcomes. Breast cancer awareness and screening programs are essential for early detection and proper management thereby leading to better outcomes. Citation Format: Mahmoud A Elshenawy, Emaan Haque, Ahmed Badran, Adhar AlSayed, Taher Twegieri, Dahish Ajarim, Wafa Khayal, Osama Al Malik, Amal Al Hefdhi, Tusneem El Hassan, Syed Saad Akhtar, Meshari Al Zahrani, Saba Al Aklabi, Kausar Suleman. Clinical Outcome and Patients’ Characteristics of Breast Cancer Diagnosed During Pregnancy: A Retrospective Single Institutional Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PS13-02.

Exploration and Assessment of Breast Cancer Awareness in the Saudi Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Breast cancer represents a considerable health burden and is a leading cause of mortality among women. Despite the availability of screening methods, many women remain unaware of their importance, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. Increased awareness of breast cancer symptoms and screening modalities may improve early detection and ultimately reduce breast cancer mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness, practices, and attitudes regarding breast cancer and its screening methods in the general population, males and females, in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire to collect data on personal information, medical and family history of breast cancer, participation in breast cancer awareness programs, knowledge of breast cancer and screening methods, and attitudes and practices related to breast cancer and breast self-examination. The questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms. Results: A total of 714 individuals completed the study questionnaire. The age range of the participants was 18 to 70 years, with a mean age of 29.9 ± 11.5 years. Among the participants, 60.1% were female. The most commonly reported risk factors for breast cancer were female sex (38.8%), smoking (35.8%), obesity (25.6%), consumption of fat-rich foods (23.9%), and alcohol intake (23.6%). The most widely recognized warning signs of breast cancer among participants were the presence of a hard, painless lump or nodule in the breast or armpit (79.7%), breast swelling (62%), and discharge from the breast (59.5%). Among female study participants in Saudi Arabia, 36.4% reported practicing breast self-examination (BSE). Conclusions: In conclusion, this study revealed that the participants demonstrated a low level of knowledge and awareness regarding breast cancer and its associated screening methods, particularly mammography. Furthermore, the practice of breast self-examination, which is especially important for women under 40 years of age, was below average, with only one out of every three female participants performing it. Educational programs and health campaigns are essential to increase awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection to improve the rates of mortality and morbidity.

What do we Learn From a Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in a Developing Country? A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Breast cancer (BC) screening and awareness programs are held annually for Iranian women by the collaboration of several governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) organizations. We designed a study to assess the effect of the campaign on women's awareness, education, and the outcome of previously unnoticed breast lesions detected during the campaign screening program. Methods: Through online social media announcements, women were invited to participate in this campaign held in five locations in the capital of Iran. Participants filled a questionnaire about personal data, previous breast problems, BC awareness and screening attitudes. BC screening was only performed via breast examination by surgeons for all women. We called all participants who required further investigation after two years. Results: In this campaign, 418 women with a mean age of 43.19±49.11 were examined. About 42% had some information about BC, mainly acquired from the media. Among women over 50, 30.2% had no previous screenings, and 15.9% had not been referred despite having symptoms. Among the women who needed further investigations according to the campaign evaluation, 71.8% complied with the recommendation to follow-up their case, and two women were diagnosed with BC. Conclusion: Women need more education in the field of BC awareness, and the need for screening; especially after the age of 50. To achieve these goals, using mass media is highly recommended and the experience of the successful campaigns held by a Charity organization and an academic center might be a good guide for preparing a comprehensive protocol.

Knowledge and Awareness of Sudanese Women toward Breast Cancer Detection

Background: The most frequent cancer in women is breast cancer (BC), which unfortunately has high mortality in Sudan whereas most of the patients are diagnosed at late stages of this disease sequence either due to a lack of awareness or unavailability of screening programs. objective: to asses of the knowledge and awareness of breast cancer detection among Sudanese women 2022 - 2023. Material and Methods: a community representative descriptive cross-sectional study of women aged 17 to 70 years in different Sudanese provinces was included using a semi-structural interview questionnaire. Results: out of 200 participants, the mean age was 39.8 (±12.13) years and the majority of them were aged between 41 and 50 years 54 (27%). 120 (60%) had no prior experience with breast cancer at all and 73 (36.5%) had never heard of breast self-examination for BC. The study resulted that the dominant of interviewed women 181 (90.5%) had a good awareness of breast cancer, and 161 (80.5%) believed that breast screening must require for the early detection of breast tumors. Breast changes, discharge, and lump pain were the most common prevalent reasons for breast screening in this study 95 (38.7%), 46 (18.7%), and 45 (18.3). It was clear that education level has a significant effect on the level of knowledge of breast cancer and its diagnostic screening tools among participants, with graduated women having adequate knowledge in comparison to those not graduated women 92 (50.5%) and 89 (49.2%) (p-value = 0.004 &lt; 0.05). As well, the central resident participants had good knowledge about breast cancer 112 (70 %) in comparison with other residents. Conclusion: awareness and knowledge of BC detection increase with increasing educational levels and central urban living, there is an urgent need for intensive breast cancer awareness programs and the availability of screening centers authorities in Sudanese periphery areas.

Metabolic Syndrome and Breast Cancer: Is There a Cause-and-Effect Relationship?

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has an important role in the development as well as the progression of breast cancer (BC). This syndrome is defined as having three or more central obesity, hypertension, insulin resistance, low low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high triglycerides (TGs). Multiple studies have demonstrated that early recognition of MetS may have a positive impact on decreasing BC incidence. We compared the prevalence of MetS in newly diagnosed carcinoma breast patients with controls in the general population and thereby provide insight into its role as an emerging risk factor for BC. Patients and Methods: A prospective, case–control study was conducted at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, between September 2018 and October 2019. One hundred and four subjects each of BC and age-matched controls were enrolled. The measurement of waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose levels, and lipid profile was performed for women with newly diagnosed BC and controls. Results: MetS was significantly more prevalent among BC (65.4%) compared to controls (30.8%). On assessing each component of MetS, it was evident that the prevalence of WC and BP, as well as the metabolic parameters, namely fasting blood sugar, TGs, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, was higher in Group A as compared to Group B. The majority of the women with BC and MetS were postmenopausal. The majority (66.2%) of BC patients with MetS were receptor positive. Conclusions: This study unveils a hidden link between MetS and BC, and hence, BC awareness programs should stress the need for lifestyle changes and healthy living to nip this evil in the bud. Opportunistic screening should be undertaken for women presenting to the medical facility with MetS. Future studies are required to design effective strategies to raise the possibility of MetS as an established risk factor in BC.

Breast Cancer Stage Migration in Saudi Arabia: Examining the Influence of Screening.

Breast Cancer Stage Migration in Saudi Arabia: Examining the Influence of Screening.

Knowledge of breast cancer and self-diagnostic skills amongst women in the United Arab Emirates

Background: Globally, breast cancer remains one of the world's greatest public health problems and a leading cause of death. Breast malignancies are considered as the major sites for tumors diagnosed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and they pose a significant concern for the general public's well-being. Aim: To conduct a descriptive cross-sectional study to determine the knowledge of breast cancer and self-diagnostic skills amongst women in the UAE. Methodology: The study was conducted for 1 month, based on an online survey designed via Microsoft Forms. It composed of 20 closed multiple-choice questions, which helped to assess the participant's knowledge of breast cancer and self-diagnostic skills. A total of 584 female participants were included in the study, out of which 498 (85.3%) were Emirati while 86 (14.7%) were non-Emirati females. Results: Despite the government's effort in enhancing breast cancer awareness programs across the UAE, only 6% of the females had excellent knowledge about breast cancer, 35% good, 46% average and 13% demonstrated poor knowledge. While only 4% had excellent breast self-examination skills, 17% had good skills, 61% had average skills and 18% had poor skills. A more concerning point was the least concern that females had towards non-lump breast cancer symptoms. Results from the current study showed that UAE female residents have an average knowledge of breast cancer and poor breast cancer self-diagnostic skills. Conclusion: The UAE government must emphasize the importance of breast screening practices, which may positively enhance breast-screening responses and practices amongst women in the UAE.

Women’s health concern in Jordan: knowledge, practice and barriers toward cervical cancer screening

PurposeCervical cancer (CC) is one of the most important health issues faced by women worldwide. The purpose of this study is to identify Jordanian women’s knowledge, barriers and measures pertaining to risk factors and screening choices of CC (Pap smear tests).Design/methodology/approachThis study applied a cross sectional design by collecting data from a convenient sample of 200 women between 20 and 70 years of age in health and public centers in Jordan. Data was then analyzed using the descriptive statistical tools of SPSS, version 21.FindingsThe findings revealed that 55.5% of the participants had no information about the Pap smear, and 75% did not know the risk factors. Moreover, 50% of the sample did not know where to take the test, and 50% reported a lack of encouragement from the husband to undertake the test. More than half of the participants (56.5%) expressed fear that cervical screening would be a painful examination even though they reported not having any previous experience with the test.Originality/valueBased on these findings, public education about CC screening is essential, including advertising and a campaign similar to the breast cancer awareness programs in Jordan, as a way of encouraging early screening to improve the health of women.

The first BGICC consensus and recommendations for breast cancer awareness, early detection and risk reduction in low- and middle-income countries and the MENA region.

In low-middle income countries (LMICs) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, there is an unmet need to establish and improve breast cancer (BC) awareness, early diagnosis and risk reduction programs. During the 12th Breast, Gynecological & Immuno-oncology International Cancer Conference - Egypt 2020, 26 experts from 7 countries worldwide voted to establish the first consensus for BC awareness, early detection and risk reduction in LMICs/MENA region. The panel advised that there is an extreme necessity for a well-developed BC data registries and prospective clinical studies that address alternative modalities/modified BC screening programs in areas of limited resources. The most important recommendations of the panel were: (a) BC awareness campaigns should be promoted to public and all adult age groups; (b) early detection programs should combine geographically distributed mammographic facilities with clinical breast examination (CBE); (c) breast awareness should be encouraged; and (d) intensive surveillance and chemoprevention strategies should be fostered for high-risk women. The panel defined some areas for future clinical research, which included the role of CBE and breast self-examination as an alternative to radiological screening in areas of limited resources, the interval and methodology of BC surveillance in women with increased risk of BC and the use of low dose tamoxifen in BC risk reduction. In LMICs/MENA region, BC awareness and early detection campaigns should take into consideration the specific disease criteria and the socioeconomic status of the target population. The statements with no consensus reached should serve as potential catalyst for future clinical research.

Outcomes of community based mammography camps in urban and rural Maharashtra

Background: Breast cancer ranks at number one, amongst all cancer cases in India. Biennial mammography screening is recommended to enhance early detection of breast cancer. Lack of awareness, cost and availability of services is a hindering factor to undergo screening. Free screening mammography camps as means to motivate women to seek the facility at her doorstep was the strategy adopted under the breast cancer awareness and screening programme. The outcome of the mammography camps is reported here.Methods: Mammography camps were conducted in urban and rural areas of Maharashtra over a period of three years. The process involved identification of eligible beneficiaries, health education, clinical breast examination followed by mammography in the mobile unit. Each camp had 25 to 40 women as this was the maximum limit that could be done per day by the mobile unit.Results: Total 358 women underwent mammography screening in 10 community based screening camps, of which 2 camps were conducted in rural areas. Women were mostly between 50 to 70 years. Of the 40.8% women with some abnormalities in the mammogram, one was diagnosed with breast cancer and eight had benign breast lesions.Conclusions: Though only a single case was detected, the camp approach was successful in sensitising the women on the need for preventive health checkup and motivated women to undergo mammography. Organising camps is by no means an easy task, however the camp approach may be the only way to provide access to mammography facilities in most parts of the country.

Situational analysis of breast health care systems: Why context matters.

Implementation of evidence-based, resource-appropriate guidelines for breast cancer control should be preceded by a baseline assessment or situational analysis to assess breast health infrastructure, workforce capacity, patient pathways, existing practices, accessibility, and costs. To support the assessment of breast health care systems within the broader context in which they exist, the Breast Health Global Initiative (BHGI) developed, tested, and refined a set of situational analysis tools with which to guide the assessment of breast health care capacity, identify the relative strengths and weaknesses of the health system, and support stakeholders in prioritizing actionable items to advance breast cancer care using evidence-based strategies tailored to their setting. The tools address 6 domains of breast health care delivery: 1) breast cancer early detection practices; 2) breast cancer awareness programs; 3) the availability of breast cancer surgery; 4) the availability of pathology; 5) the availability of radiotherapy, and 6) the availability of systemic therapy services. The current study also describes the more comprehensive International Atomic Energy Agency Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT) integrated missions for PACT (imPACT) review. As of 2020, 5 formal BHGI situational analyses have been performed in India, Brazil, Panama, Tanzania, and Uganda. As of August 2019, a total of 100 imPACT reviews have been conducted in 91 countries. These assessments can contribute to more informed policymaking. Situational analyses are a prerequisite for the development of resource-appropriate strategies with which to advance breast cancer control in any setting and should assess services across the entire breast health care continuum as well as the broader structural, sociocultural, personal, and financial contexts within which they operate.

Breast Cancer Screening Program in Lithuania: Trends in Breast Cancer Mortality Before and During the Introduction of the Mammography Screening Program.

. Background.Breast cancer is the most frequent oncological disease as well as the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Decline in mortality in economically strong countries is observed. This decline is mostly related to early diagnosis (an improvement in breast cancer awareness and the mammography screening program (MSP)) and a more effective treatment. In the end of 2005, MSP started in Lithuania. The main aim of this article is to evaluate the breast cancer mortality during 22 years in Lithuania, as well as changes before the start of the MSP and during its implementation, in order to assess the influence of the MSP on mortality.Materials and methods.Analysis is based on data from the population-based Lithuanian Cancer Registry. Analysis of changes in mortality includes the period from 1998 to 2019. Age standardized mortality rates are calculated for assessment of changes. Joinpoint regression analysis is used.Results.Applying the segmental regression model, it was found that during the study period mortality was statistically significantly decreasing by -1.1% each year. Mortality among women under the age of 50 decreased both before and during the implementation of MSP. Mortality in the target population also was already decreasing until the implementation of the program, but a significant reduction in mortality was observed in this group since 2006. Conclusions.Overall breast cancer mortality is decreasing in Lithuania. After the implementation of MSP the largest reduction in mortality was observed in the target population, however, it is not as pronounced as it could be with the well-organized MSP.

Impact of regular Breast Self-Examination on breast cancer size, stage, and mortality in Thailand.

Impact of regular Breast Self-Examination on breast cancer size, stage, and mortality in Thailand.

Barriers to Clinical Breast Examination amongst Women of Low Socio-Economic Group in Mumbai

Background: Literature review shows barriers to clinical breast examination is primarily due to lack of knowledge and non-availability of services. Breast cancer awareness and screening programme implemented in the low socio-economic group in the city of Mumbai, focussed on raising awareness levels and motivating women for clinical breast examination. The participation rate for clinical breast examination despite providing information and services was only 40-50%. The aim of the study is to understand the barriers to undergo clinical breast examination and seek suggestions for increasing their participation. Methods: A qualitative research study design using indepth interview technique was conducted in women residing in low socio-economic area in city of Mumbai. Thirty four women, selected using purposive sampling technique, were interviewed in community setting using a semi-structured indepth interview tool. Women between 40-69 years who had received health education but had not undergone clinical breast examination constituted the study sample. Results of the study are presented by coding of the responses of the participants into broad thematic area. Results: The major barriers to clinical breast examination were social reasons that included the women’s priority to household chores, lack of support from family members, stress caused due to relationship problems etc., Emotional disturbances due to family stress was attributed as a reason for not remembering the contents of health talk on breast cancer. Misconceptions despite health education sessions by the health workers prevailed. Conclusions: Giving information may not be sufficient to change health seeking behaviour. There is a need to sensitise women to accord priority to their own health and teach them to deal with emotional stress and find ways to overcome social barriers.

Public Policies and patents for breast cancer in Brazil, India and Australia

This article illustrates that public policies to facilitate access to medicines, research investments, and self-awareness for breast cancer are the way to change the scenario of breast cancer in Brazil, India and Australia. The motivation was due to the fact that the literature reports breast cancer as a public health problem due to high incidence and mortality rates, whether the country is developed or not. The method adopted was the review study based on the data analysis on public policies and patents for breast cancer in Brazil, India and Australia available in official websites, INPI, Espacenet and Patentscope databases, journals and international newspapers Specialized and physical literature related to the theme. The descriptors used were cancer, breast, breast cancer, breast cancer and Australia, cancer patents, breast cancer and India. The following inclusion criteria used were year and period of publication, availability of the article in full and the intersection between the descriptors. The research concluded that there is an urgent need to prioritize public health with more investment in breast cancer research and awareness programs on the importance of early detection in those countries, primarily in India.

Internet Access and Breast Cancer Awareness Among Akure Residents

Purpose Of the leading types of cancer in women, breast cancer presents with the highest number of cases and is the leading cause of cancer death in less developed countries. Despite the promising positive impact of the Internet on breast cancer awareness, there is a paucity of information on the effect of Internet access on breast cancer knowledge in Nigeria. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of Internet access on breast cancer knowledge and the perceived benefit of breast self-examination among adults residing in Akure Town, Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to determine the effect of access to the Internet on breast cancer knowledge and the perceived benefit of breast self-examination among Akure residents. The study was conducted in 295 men and women age 18 to 60 years residing in Akure who were selected using a systematic sampling technique. A telephone survey was used to collect data. Simple frequency distribution was used to describe the data, and bivariable logistic regression was used to test the association between variables. Results Almost all adults residing in Akure are aware of breast cancer and more than one half have a good knowledge of the disease. Although more than one half of the study population was found to have a good knowledge of breast cancer, most adults do not have knowledge of the risk factors of breast cancer. Nearly 97% of the 84% of participants who have ever conducted breast self-examination does so at least once in a month. Adults residing in Akure who have access to the Internet were more than two times more likely to have a good knowledge of breast cancer compared with their counterparts with no Internet access. Conclusion Knowledge of breast cancer is above average among Akure adults; however, more than one half of the adult populace in Akure still lacks adequate knowledge of the risk factors of breast cancer. Breast cancer awareness programs that are targeted at Akure residents should emphasize breast cancer risk factors and use the platform provided by the Internet. AUTHOR’S DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST The following represents disclosure information provided by authors of this manuscript. All relationships are considered compensated. Relationships are self-held unless noted. I = Immediate Family Member, Inst = My Institution. Relationships may not relate to the subject matter of this manuscript. For more information about ASCO's conflict of interest policy, please refer to www.asco.org/rwc or ascopubs.org/jco/site/ifc . No COIs from the author.

Knowledge and Attitude to Breast Cancer Screening and Risk Factors Among Women in Southwest Nigeria

Background: Breast cancer is the commonest cancer among women in Nigeria. There are several reasons why over 60% of breast cancer patients present with advanced disease. Some of which are lack of awareness and poor uptake of cancer screening methods. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and practice of screening modalities among a cross-section of women in 5 different local government areas in Lagos. Methods: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study conducted among women during a breast cancer awareness and screening program in 5 local government areas of Lagos. A self-administered questionnaire was administered to assess the knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and practice of screening methods. Results were analyzed with SPSS version 21. Results: A total of 1113 respondents were surveyed across various communities. Distributions among semi-urban communities include: 29.7% from Mushin, 22.4% from Somolu, 18.2% from Ikeja, 15.8% from Kosofe and 13.8% from Idi-Araba. Mean age ± SD of respondents was 43.6 ± 12.6 years. Even though 78.5% have heard about breast cancer and screening only 29.3% had been screened. Breast screening modalities used were clinical breast examination (19.9%), mammogram (5.8%) and breast ultrasound (3.6%). Conclusion: This study shows that there is a low uptake of breast cancer screening practices and the high knowledge of screening methods did not translate to higher screening practices among the studied population. There is a need to create more awareness on the risk factors identification and emphasize the importance of regular screening for breast cancer as essentials for early diagnosis and survival.

Breast Cancer Awareness among Healthcare Professionals - 2 Decades later: An Observational Review

Based on a follow up update on a previous study performed 2 decades earlier (Ann SM; 2000; 20(2): 135-136). Portraying alarming results on knowledge and attitudes on breast cancer among healthcare professionals from and university hospital. This review aims to explore the current performance of healthcare professionals towards breast cancer awareness in a potentially developed era. Materials and Methods: This Cross-Sectional pilot tested study was conducted at a university hospital targeting all healthcare professionals between June 2017 - December 2017. Designed structured questionnaires were directly distributed to cover demographic data, high-risk factors, knowledge and attitudes towards breast cancer. The target population was 600. Results: The total respondents were 532(88%). Age ranged between 19-59 years with the mean age of 28 years. These where 200(37%) final year medical students, 118(22%) interns, 60(11%) residents 22(4%), specialist 30(5%), 28(5%) consultants, and 74(13%) nurses. High risk group accounted for 120(23%) of all participants. The highest scores were obtained from the younger group of staff, the interns\students (91%, 97%) as compared to the specialist\consultant categories (75%, 82%). Nurses unexpectedly had shown lower scores in knowledge (71%) which may suggest that the practical education in nursing practice supersedes knowledge in special fields. High risk group did not show significant difference in the overall knowledge scores (84%) yet, they scored higher in attitudes towards BCAP (94%). Conclusion: The necessity for (BCAP) cannot be overstated. The impressive and remarkable improvement of breast cancer awareness coupled with the availability and readiness of human resources assist in the planning, implementing and setting guidelines and strategies for breast cancer early detection programs. It can be declared that our community is equipped with knowledgeable medical staff, who can perform adequately run Breast Cancer Awareness Programs.