Level Of Breast Cancer Awareness Research Articles

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.

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.

Breast cancer awareness among Sudanese females in Omdurman city: 2021

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among women worldwide. In contrast to Europe, it presents generally very late in Africa. As with the rest of Africa, it is the most common primary malignancy of females in Sudan, and generally presents in stage III or IV disease. This study is intended to analyse the level of breast cancer awareness among women of Sudan.ObjectiveTo assess the level of awareness of breast cancer among Sudanese females, and their attitude towards breast changes. Also, to establish possible associations between several variables: (education level, age, contact with a breast cancer patient, residence) on awareness.MethodologyA descriptive cross-sectional community-based study of 385 females in Omdurman city, selected by convenience sampling. An interview based Arabic version of Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM) was used. Data was coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v.20.ResultsA total of 385 females were included, of which 38.7% were 20–30 years, 47.8% were single, 53.8% had university education, 41% of them were currently unemployed, and 54.3% resided in Ummbadda’s locality. When asked about the signs and risk factors of breast cancer, 55.06% and 55.8% failed to name any. The cumulative percentage of correct answers of close-ended question about signs, risk factors and Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) screening program were 42.8%, 30.7% and 44.7% in that order. Only 38.2% knew the right method BSE, 48.2% of them rarely practiced it. 38.2% noticed a change in the breast tissue but didn’t visit a doctor. The majority of them, though, said they would see a doctor if they noticed a change in the future.ConclusionThere is a severe lack of awareness of breast cancer among females of the Sudanese society. Also, there was a clear ignorant attitude practiced by a significant proportion of the candidates.RecommendationsFurther research, to address the limitations of this study is to be done. FMoH has to improve its media massage and arrange targeted awareness campaigns.

Effectiveness of a telehealth patient education intervention for breast cancer awareness and screening uptake among Afghan refugee women: a cross-sectional survey and feasibility study

Refugee populations have low levels of cancer awareness, low cancer screening rates, and a high rate of advanced or metastatic cancer at diagnosis. Educational interventions to improve cancer awareness and screening have been successful in other nationality refugee populations but have never been implemented in Afghan refugee populations. We aimed to estimate the level of breast cancer awareness among Afghan refugee women and test the feasibility of a telehealth breast cancer educational intervention to increase breast cancer awareness in this population. A cross-sectional survey of Afghan refugee women residing in Istanbul, Türkiye who had no personal history of breast cancer and who presented to outpatient primary clinics for care between August 1, 2022, and February 10, 2023 was performed. Participant awareness of breast cancer (BC) was assessed using the validated BC awareness tool, Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM), during a telehealth encounter. After this baseline assessment, a BC educational intervention was administered to each participant during the telehealth encounter. Six months after the initial assessment and education, a follow-up BCAM was administered via telehealth in order to determine the effectiveness of the education intervention. One hundred participants were accrued to the study. Median age was 49 years (range: 40-64). All participants had no formal education, were married, and were not employed. Prior to the educational intervention, BC awareness was low; none of the participants were able to identify some common signs/symptoms and risk factors for BC. Prior to the educational intervention, zero participants had ever had a mammogram or seen a physician for a breast-related concern. Six months after the educational intervention, up to 99 percent of participants (99 of 100 participants) were able to correctly identify common signs or symptoms and risk factors for BC. Six months after the educational intervention, all one hundred participants had accepted the offer of a screening mammogram. A telehealth BC education intervention meaningfully increased BC awareness in Afghan refugee women. This increase in BC awareness was associated with a strong increase in completion of BC screening. Further implementation of educational interventions is warranted in order to increase participant awareness and improve screening rates. Dana Farber Cancer Institute Jay Harris Junior Faculty Research Grant.

Breast Cancer Awareness Among Nurses in Kumasi, Ghana: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice

Background: There is no published data on breast cancer awareness among the Ghanaian population in the country.Objectives: To determine the level of breast cancer awareness of among nurses at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) Kumasi.Method: A standard self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the qualified nurses (degree, diploma, and certificate-SRN holders) in the departments of Surgery, Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Paediatrics at KATH. The questionnaire sought to investigate the level of knowledge on several aspects of breast cancer among the nurses; these include the symptoms, methods ofdiagnosis, risk factors, and methods of screening for the disease – breast self-examination, clinical breast examination and mammography. The completed questionnaire were retrieved, graded and scored. Results: The response rate was 53.9% (165/306). Mean knowledge score was 68.9%. Ninety respondents (54.5%) knew about one or two out of five risk factors. One hundred and fifty-nine participants (94.5%) thought that breast cancer was a serious disease. One –hundred and thirty-five respondents (81.8%) indicated that they would see a doctor on the same day that they develop breast cancerand 102(61.8%) would accept mastectomy as treatment of the disease. Breast self-examination was practiced by 119 or 72.0% of the respondents. Respondents who were highly knowledgeable of breast cancer practiced clinical breast examination more frequently (27/93); (8/72) (X2 = 9.4, p=0.001). The practice of all three screening methods was less frequent (&gt;5%) among all the participants.Conclusion: In general terms the nurses at KATH have adequate knowledge about several aspects of breast cancer. Knowledge of risk factors, the practice of clinical breast examination and the use of mammography is low.

Public awareness of women toward breast cancer and its screening methods in Tabuk city, Saudi Arabia

Background: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in the world. It can emerge at any age, but women above the age of 40 are more commonly affected. Objective: To assess the public awareness of women toward breast cancer and the methods of screening, and to determine the relationship between the level of awareness with different sociodemographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among the women of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, via a nonprobability sampling technique. Data collection was carried out through an online self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 431 women were included in this study. Almost 40% were aged 18-30 years. The mean awareness score of the participants was 17.3 ± 3.5 (SD) out of a total of 24 points. More than half of the females revealed good awareness (52.7%). In addition, about 72.6% of the women knew that breast cancer is very common and most of them admitted that different methods of screening are not harmful but useful. Breast lumps was most frequently recognized symptom of breast cancer. Furthermore, significant associations were found between the level of awareness and age, marital status, occupational status, and age of menarche. Conclusion: The results showed an intermediate level of breast cancer awareness and screening methods. However, this level is still insufficient. Therefore, educational interventions are recommended to provide awareness of breast cancer. The above-listed associated factors should be considered while applying these interventions.

Breast Cancer Awareness Based on Health Information Literacy and Influential Factors among Female Nursing Students in China.

This investigation aimed to study breast cancer awareness based on health information literacy and influential factors of breast cancer awareness among female nursing students in Changchun city in China. A four-part self-report questionnaire including the participants' general demographic characteristics, the participants' specialized characteristics concerning breast cancer screening, the Chinese version of the Breast Cancer Awareness Measurement (C-BCAM), and the Chinese version of the Health Information Literacy Self-rating Scale (HILSS) was designed to investigate breast cancer awareness and health information literacy and influential factors of breast cancer awareness among 205 female nursing students in Year 1-Year 3 using convenience sampling. The data were analyzed with SPSS 26.0 using descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests, and multiple regression analysis. The nursing students had an average level of HIL (median = 101.00, (93.00, 107.00)) and a good level of breast cancer awareness (median = 82.00, (76.00, 88.00)). A significant positive correlation was found between the HILSS and total C-BCAM score (r = 0.439, P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that grades (P < 0.001), training in BSE (P = 0.025), and intention of undergoing breast cancer screening (P = 0.028) were three predictive factors for breast cancer awareness among female nursing students. The female nursing students' HIL was at an average level, and breast cancer awareness was at a good level. Health information literacy and breast cancer awareness among female nursing students in Changchun were significantly positively correlation, as demonstrated by this survey. Therefore, nursing education has the responsibility to improve female nursing students' awareness of breast cancer at different grades and to cultivate health information literacy. More training in BSE is needed. Greater efforts may be needed to develop targeted nursing education to strengthen female nursing students' awareness of breast cancer and HIL.

Awareness, attitudes and practices of women in relation to breast cancer in Niger

IntroductionIn Niger, breast cancer is the first cancer related morbidity and mortality within female population. While awareness can contribute to early diagnosis and disease mortality reduction, Niger women's knowledge of breast cancer is not well documented. In this study, we assessed the awareness, attitudes and practices of women in relation to breast cancer and identify the factors associated with it. MethodsThe study was conducted through a cross sectional survey in Zinder and Niamey regions. A random sampling was used to select women in households within health districts. We defined a breast cancer knowledge score and used a generalized linear model to assess factors associated with it. ResultsOverall women's knowledge of breast cancer was found to be low, only 41.2% (37.5–45.0) were aware of breast cancer. 65.0% (61.3–68.7) of women demonstrated an awareness of symptoms. Insufficient level of knowledge was observed on knowledge of risk and protection factors with 27.4 % (24.0–31.0), breast cancer good practice with 16.9% (14.2–19.7). Age OR = 0.98 (0.96–0.99), practicing clinical breast examination OR = 2.25 (1.31–3.16), breastfeeding 3.34 (2.12–5.26), not having a history of participation in breast cancer screening and living in rural and peri-urban areas were found to be associated with awareness of breast cancer. ConclusionNiger women were found to have a relatively low level of breast cancer awareness. While not acquainted with self and clinical breast examination, Niger women knowledge of breast cancer symptoms was acceptable. Awareness programs can promote clinical breast examination as mammography is not common and promote early detection procedures.

Factors influencing breast cancer awareness: a cross-sectional study in China.

Aim: This study aimed to explore the factors that influence breast cancer awareness. Materials & methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and April 2019 in Changchun, Jilin Province, China. Results: A total of 274 women were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Participants had a moderate level of breast cancer awareness (median=76.50 [68.75, 84.00]). Women in the action/maintenance stages reported higher breast cancer awareness (p = 0.044). Women's breast cancer awareness was positively associated with high health information literacy level, husbands' higher educational degrees, seeing doctors after detecting abnormal breast changes and living within a short distance from the nearest hospital. Conclusion: History of screening and higher health information literacy levels are important positive factors linked to higher breast cancer awareness.

Impact of Media Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign on the Health Behaviour of Women in Southeast Nigeria

Objectives: The goals of the paper are to find out if there is any relationship between breast cancer preventive/curative measures and the contents of media campaign against it; ascertain if the media campaign established a high level of awareness among women; and examine the relationship between breast cancer awareness and the practice of preventive/curative behaviours.&#x0D; &#x0D; Subjects &amp;amp; Methods: The paper adopts a cross-sectional survey method that involves primary and secondary methods of data collection. Structured questionnaire was used to collect responses from women in relation to questions raised while published materials such as relevant books, journal articles, conference and workshop papers, and internet materials were reviewed to ascertain the current level and dimensions of research findings in the field across the world. Review of literature lasted for 8 weeks while distribution and collection of questionnaire lasted for 5 weeks. The study area is Southeast Nigeria, which comprises the five Igbo speaking states of Nigeria. A sample of 1000 women was randomly selected from markets, churches, schools, and civil service in the capitals of these states, i.e. Abakiliki, Awka, Enugu, Owerri, and Umuahia for the distribution of the structured questionnaire.200 questionnaires were distributed in each of the five study areas using multi stage random sampling technique with the aid of three research assistants. Their responses were tabulated and analysed using descriptive statistics in the SPSS version 20.0 tools.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: Results reveal a high level of breast cancer awareness although only 31.2% learnt of it through media campaign; the awareness did not orchestrate health behaviour modification among the respondents; while lack of appropriate knowledge of breast cancer disease, lack of fund and high cost of cancer treatment, and absence of accessible treatment facilities are the cause.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: Media campaign against breast cancer in the Southeast Nigeria is deficient in terms of scope, reach, and contents. Secondly, poor standard of living and lack of appropriate corporate response to campaign and treatment of the disease are major problems. Therefore, modification of media contents and campaign programmes, together with government assisted breast cancer treatment mechanisms are recommended.

Improvement of early detection of breast cancer through collaborative multi-country efforts: Observational clinical study

AimThe aim of this paper is to present baseline imaging data and the improvement that was achieved by the participating centers after applying practice-specific interventions that were identified during the course of a multicentric multinational research coordinated project. IntroductionThe incidence and mortality rates from breast cancer are rising worldwide and particularly rapidly across the countries with limited resources. Due to lack of awareness and screening options it is usually detected at a later stage. Breast cancer screening programs and even clinical services on breast cancer have been neglected in such countries particularly due to lack of available equipment, funds, organizational structure and quality criteria. Materials and methodsA harmonized form was designed in order to facilitate uniformity of data collection. Baseline data such as type of equipment, number of exams, type and number of biopsy procedures, stage of cancer at detection were collected from 10 centers (9 countries: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Costa Rica, Egypt, India, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Slovenia, Turkey, Uganda) were collected. Local practices were evaluated for good practice and specific interventions such as training of professionals and quality assurance programs were identified. The centers were asked to recapture the data after a 2-year period to identify the impact of the interventions. ResultsThe data showed increase in the number of training of relevant professionals, positive changes in the mammography practice and image guided interventions. All the centers achieved higher levels of success in the implementation of the quality assurance procedures. ConclusionThe study has encountered different levels of breast imaging practice in terms of expertise, financial and human resources, infrastructure and awareness. The most common challenges were the lack of appropriate quality assurance programs and lack of trained skilled personnel and lack of high-quality equipment. The project was able to create higher levels of breast cancer awareness, collaboration amongst participating centers and professionals. It also improved quality, capability and expertise in breast imaging particularly in centers involved diagnostic imaging.

To Control the Morbidity and Mortality Rate of Breast Cancer Through Increasing Knowledge Capacity

Breast cancer in women is a major health burden both in developed and developing countries. It is the second leading cause of death in women worldwide as well as in Uganda. Recent global cancer statistics shows that global incidence is rising at a faster rate especially in developing countries like Uganda. But still breast cancer is not on the top of the priority list for the policy makers, donors and health professionals. But the prevailing situation can be more devastated if early attention is not given. Breast cancer, the third most frequent cancer of women is preventable through knowledge on breast self-examination. Of the 44% of women diagnosed with breast cancer at the Uganda Cancer Institute, only 22% go for check-up in less than three months. This study explored the effect of breast cancer knowledge on the uptake of breast cancer prevention modalities among women in Kampala region. To concentrate on this fast growing health problem will need to know the overall situation concerning incidence, prevalence, risk group, diagnostic and treatment status survival and mortality rate first to make a comprehensive policy to cope with breast cancer situation in Uganda. To evaluate the knowledge and practices about breast cancer among women, this present study was conducted. Knowledge about sign, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment is quite not good among the women. 21% women have knowledge about performing breast self-exam and 17% have heard about mammography. However, to controlling the morbidity and mortality rate of breast cancer we should increase the level of knowledge and we should take some steps to spread the knowledge and awareness about breast cancer. Methods: A household survey of women in Kampala region was conducted during June, 2016 to August, 2017. This involved studying in-depth using a questionnaire the level of breast cancer knowledge of the respondents. Data was analyzed using logistic regression model. Chi-square test was used to establish relationships between knowledge base factors and the uptake of breast cancer prevention modalities. Conclusion: The women’s level of breast cancer awareness as a primary prevention strategy was found wanting, and requires a boost through community health education. Breast cancer is the top cancer in women worldwide and is increasing particularly in developing countries where the majority of cases are diagnosed in late stages.

Pattern of breast ultrasound findings in Zaria, North Western Nigeria

Background: With increasing level of breast cancer awareness among Nigerians, more patients are presenting with breast symptoms. Ultrasound is relied upon significantly since mammographic facilities are few and breast magnetic resonance imaging is either too expensive or unavailable. Our study aimed at presenting the breast ultrasound findings among symptomatic and asymptomatic patients at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective review of 603 patients who were referred from Surgical and general out-patient departments of our hospital for breast ultrasound scan between January 2015 and July 2017. Whole breast scans were performed using a single Mindray DC-8 (2011) Ultrasound machine, fitted with a 7–12 MHz transducer. The findings were described, recorded, and a final assessment category assigned using the American College of Radiology (ACR) Breast Imaging Reports and Data systems (BI-RADS) classification as follows: 1 (negative), 2 (benign), 3 (probably benign), 4 (suspicious), 5 (highly suggestive for malignancy), and 6 (known biopsy proven malignancy). Histological diagnoses were sought for abnormal ultrasound findings. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software for Windows version 20, Chicago, IL. Results: The patients comprised of 591 females and 12 males, with a mean age of 35.7 ± 13.0 years. The most common indication was breast lump (44.3%). BI-RADS 1 was the most common category (44.6%), followed by BI-RADS 3 (25.9%). Mass lesion was the most frequent sonographic finding (45.3%). Others were calcifications, 33 (5.5%); architectural distortion, 67 (11.1%); edema, 52 (8.6%); vascular lesion, 1 (0.16%); and ductal abnormalities, 55 (9.1%). The incidence of breast cancer increased with increasing age. Conclusion: Our predominant ultrasound findings were negative (normal or benign). This supports the use of ultrasound as a first-line diagnostic breast imaging modality in our community. Its added advantage of availability, radiation safety, and less cost makes it an indispensable tool.

Low Awareness of Breast Cancer and Considerable Barriers to Early Presentation Among Saudi Women at a Primary Care Setting.

In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer is diagnosed at advanced stage compared to Western countries. Nevertheless, the perceived barriers to delayed presentation have been poorly examined. Additionally, available breast cancer awareness data are lacking validated measurement tool. The aim of this study is to evaluate the level of breast cancer awareness and perceived barriers to seeking medical care among Saudi women, using internationally validated tool. A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult Saudi women attending a primary care center in Riyadh during February 2014. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire based on the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM-breast). Out of 290 women included, 30% recognized five or more (out of nine) non-lump symptoms of breast cancer, 31% correctly identified the risky age of breast cancer (set as 50 or 70years), 28% reported frequent (at least once a month) breast checking. Considering the three items of the CAM-breast, only 5% were completely aware while 41% were completely unaware of breast cancer. The majority (94%) reported one or more barriers. The most frequently reported barrier was the difficulty of getting a doctor appointment (39%) followed by worries about the possibility of being diagnosed with breast cancer (31%) and being too busy to seek medical help (26%). We are reporting a major gap in breast cancer awareness and several logistic and emotional barriers to seeking medical care among adult Saudi women. The current findings emphasized the critical need for an effective national breast cancer education program to increase public awareness and early diagnosis.

I Do Not Even Say "It" - a Mixed Methods Study on Breast Cancer Awareness of Omani Women

The incidence of breast cancer is rising in Oman, and the disease is diagnosed at late stages, when treatment success is limited. Omani women might benefit from better awareness, so that breast cancer can be detected early and treated. This study was conducted to assess Omani women's levels of breast cancer awareness and early detection practice, and explore factors which might influence these levels. A mixed methods study was conducted in 2014, including a quantitative survey of 1,372 and a qualitative assessment of 19 Omani women, aged ≥20 years from five Omani governorates using convenient sampling. Demographic information and scores for awareness levels were used in a multivariate regression model to investigate factors associated with awareness. Thematic analysis and interpretive description were used to analyse the qualitative data. The overall means for early detection and general awareness scores were 0.58 (SD 0.24) and 0.46 (SD 0.21), respectively. General awareness was significantly associated with age, education, income and familiarity with cancer patients (<0.05), while early detection was significantly associated with age, marital status and education. A majority of women (59.5%) agreed with a belief in 'evil eye' or envy as a risk factor for breast cancer. Women discussed various factors which may empower or inhibit awareness, including the cultural-religion-fatalistic system, personal-familial-environmental system, and healthcare-political-social system. The overall low scores for awareness and early detection, and the survey of local beliefs highlight a severe necessity for a contextually-tailored breast cancer awareness intervention programme in Oman.

Abstract A24: Evaluation of a breast cancer screening program in Nigeria

Abstract Background: Late stage diagnosis has been cited as the biggest cause of breast cancer mortality in Nigeria. Low levels of breast cancer awareness among Nigerian women decrease the likelihood they undergo screening; therefore, cancer is often diagnosed at late stages. The Optimal Cancer Care Foundation (OCCF) was founded to address the issue of low breast cancer screening and awareness in Lagos, Nigeria. OCCF provides subsidized screening without long waiting periods or crowds associated with public hospitals. OCCF also conducts weekly seminars on risk factors, signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer. Ongoing assessment of program implementation and effectiveness is necessary for OCCF to provide the maximum benefit. This study aims to describe culturally relevant factors from patient interviews that may be influential and deserve consideration in the OCCF breast cancer screening program and perform an evaluability assessment in partnership with the OCCF to determine if the program is achieving its stated objectives and to adjust OCCF activities to improve outcomes. Methods: The study took place in the screening facility of OCCF in Lagos, Nigeria in June and July 2015. The eligibility criteria were women 18 years and older, able to speak English and not pregnant. An incentive was provided in the form of clinic registration fee, 500 naira or $3 for new patients or soap and tooth paste worth the same amount for women who had already registered at the clinic. Program participants were given a survey to determine baseline breast cancer knowledge, at which time demographic data was also collected. Semi-structured interviews to assess screening beliefs were also conducted. Descriptive statistics were employed to assess sample demographics. Content analysis was conducted to assess responses for semi-structured survey questions. Preliminary Results: All patients present on interview days filled the survey. 129 women, with an average age of 37 and a range of 18-61 answered the survey. Sixty four percent of the participants were new patients. Fifty-two percent of the sample had a college or graduate degree while 23% of women had a high school education or less. Twenty-two percentage had technical or vocation training certificates. Sixty-five percent of women were married and 2% were widows. Twenty-two percent of women were currently unemployed. Thirty-two percent of women were self-employed while 33% had some other professional employment. Forty-three percent of women did not know their risk of getting breast cancer. Thirty-three percent believed that breast cancer was a disease only common in the elderly while 66% believed that breast cancer could be inherited. Five percent believed that breast cancer was caused by evil spirits while 12 % were not sure if breast cancer could be caused by evil spirits. Finally 50% of women had never been screened for breast cancer prior to coming into OCCF. Ninety-four interviews were conducted. Screening barriers included cost of screening and transportation to OCCF, lack of awareness and knowledge about the program and breast cancer and fear associated with stigma of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Many women stated that religion and traditions may play a part in predicting if a women gets screened. It was believed by some that getting screened was an avenue to invite disease into the body. Many believed that breast cancer is caused by evil spirits, curses, or being promiscuous. Others believed that eating canned food, using a microwave, putting money in the bra or wearing a bra caused breast cancer. All women interviewed believed it was important for women for talk to each other about breast cancer but many did not believe it was important to involve men in the discussion. Conclusion: Interventions that increase women's breast cancer knowledge and change negative beliefs associated with decreased screening would lead to improved screening rates in this population. Citation Format: Bilikisu Reni Elewonibi. Evaluation of a breast cancer screening program in Nigeria. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eighth AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 13-16, 2015; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2016;25(3 Suppl):Abstract nr A24.

A Survey on Singaporean Women’s Knowledge, Perception and Practices of Mammogram Screening

Singapore is the first Asian country to establish a nationwide breast screening programme, but our breast cancer screening uptake lags behind the Western countries. This survey focused on the subject of screening mammography, to assess the reasons for non-attendance and explore ways to improve our screening uptake. Females ≥21 years old were approached at primary healthcare clinics to participate in this survey, which questioned their knowledge, perception and expectations of breast screening. There were 1011 respondents. Of the 740 respondents ≥40 years old, 332 respondents (45.5%) went for regular mammogram screening. Women who had lower household incomes [<$2000 (OR 0.49; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.85); $2000 to $3999 (OR 0.59; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.97)], did not know anyone with breast cancer (OR 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.92), did not perform breast self-examination (OR 0.42; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.62), had lower knowledge scores (OR 0.34; 95% CI 0.22 to 0.51), did not attend other health screening (OR 0.14; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.41), and perceived mammography as embarrassing (OR 0.55; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.96), were less likely to attend mammographic screening. Many did not know that screening is for the asymptomatic (51.2%), or the age to start screening (46.3%). Most respondents preferred to have their mammograms in the polyclinics (62.2%) and their screening reminders to be through short messaging service (SMS) (46.0%). Our results show the current influences on Singapore women's screening practices, and also revealed that their understanding of mammogram screening is limited despite a high level of breast cancer awareness.

Using the health belief model to assess women’s perception towards breast cancer

Introduction: Most women in previous studies held pessimistic views about the curability of breast cancer (BC) (58.2%). The health belief model (HBM) has been used in several studies as a theoretical framework to study breast self-examination (BSE) and other breast cancer detection behaviours. This study was designed to identify the level of BC awareness and BSE knowledge, attitude and practice of Saudi women. Objectives: To study the attitude of Saudi women towards BC and BSE using the HBM. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in an ambulatory care centre at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 118 women were interviewed using a prevalidated Arabic questionnaire to collect data on (1) knowledge and practice of BSE, (2) knowledge of breast cancer, risk factors, warning signs and screening tools and (3) perception towards BC susceptibility, seriousness, benefits and barriers of screening and curability using HBM. For data analysis, a scoring system was applied by which the total scores of each of knowledge and perception domains and percentage mean scores were presented graphically. Results: Only one-third of all women reported previous practice of BSE (36.4%). Percentage mean score of knowledge was 52.9±22.9 for general knowledge, 60.9±30.4 for warning signs and only 43.1±24.0 for risks factors of BC. According to HBM, percentage mean score of different domains of perception to BC were as follows: seriousness (55.4±14.5), benefits (74.2±13.3), barriers (40.5±13.0), susceptibility (45.0±16.3), motivation (74.4±12.0), confidence (54.7±14.7). Those with knowledge of BC screening tests were as follows: 37.6% for mammogram, 41.7% for clinical breast exam and 55.1% for BSE. Conclusions: Generally speaking, levels of knowledge on BC and its risk factors and warning signs were less than satisfactory. Although women reported a positive attitude towards the benefits of screening their was low perception to susceptibility. Therefore, conduction of mass education campaigns on BC are necessary. Acknowledgements: Professor Mostafa Aboalfotouh and Ala’ a Bani Mustafa for supervising this project.

Awareness and attitudes regarding breast cancer and breast self-examination among female Jordanian students.

Background:Despite huge efforts to increase the level of breast cancer awareness, breast self-examination (BSE) is still poorly practiced across Jordan. This baseline study aimed to assess the awareness of female Jordanian students about breast cancer and their practice of BSE.Materials and Methods:Using a cross-sectional research design, a self-administered survey was used, via a pre-validated pre-piloted questionnaire was distributed to 900 female students aged between 18 and 37 years recruited from the University of Jordan in Amman. The questionnaire was divided into four domains: Socio-demographic characteristics; the respondent's knowledge of breast cancer and BSE; their attitude towards risk factors for breast cancer; their experience of breast cancer screening and BSE. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi-Info version 6.4 statistical Software.Results:The overall response rate was 93.3%. Approximately half of the respondents 435 (51.8%) were aware of breast cancer. Of these, 99 (22.7%) believed that it was caused by a medical condition, followed by old age (71; 16.4%), lack of breastfeeding (58; 13.3%), heredity (56; 12.8%), late marriage (44; 10.3%), pregnancies in older women (33; 7.5%), the use of brassieres (18; 4.1%), excessive breastfeeding (17; 3.9%), being unmarried (14; 3.2%), and spirituality (11; 2.6%). Overall, 152 participants (34.9%) were aware of BSE, but only 93 (11%) had performed it.Conclusions:The current status of awareness of breast cancer in Jordanian students and their use of BSE are insufficient. Women need to be encouraged to self-monitor in order to detect abnormalities in their breasts. Appropriate educational interventions are urgently required to encourage women to engage in regular BSE.

Assessing the level of breast cancer awareness among recently diagnosed patients in Ain Shams University Hospital

Breast cancer is the leading female malignancy among Egyptian women. The majority of Egyptian breast cancer patients present at late stages of the disease with a large tumor size compared to Western countries. Low breast cancer awareness, social and cultural factors were suggested to play crucial role in late presentation of breast cancer among Egyptians. The aim of our present study is to establish a questionnaire-based survey that can assess levels of breast cancer awareness among Egyptians. Patients enrolled were interviewed and answered 60 questions related to knowledge, symptoms, risk factors, prevention and management options of breast cancer. We evaluated our interactions with breast cancer patients and defined the level of awareness gained from education and culture of Egyptian women. Our results described that Egyptian breast cancer patients lack knowledge about their illness and condition. The lowest levels of awareness were related to age, education and culture. We concluded that breast cancer public awareness and women education programs covering factors identified in our study is warranted among Egyptian population.Overview ObjectiveTo assess breast cancer awareness among recently diagnosed breast cancer Egyptian patients. Subjects and methodsAmong 289 interviewed breast cancer patients we enrolled 45 patients who fulfilled the study inclusion criteria. Participants were asked to answer a validated 60-item questionnaire that inquires about socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, symptoms, prevention, general management and willingness to participate in awareness campaigns. The average of interview time was about 45 min, depending on patient's age and education level. ResultsThe mean age of included patients was 48.2 ± 10.19 years. Geographical distribution revealed that 66.7% patients were from Cairo and the rest were from other governorates, including Aswan, Sharqia, Mansora, Qena, Kalyobia, Elminya and Sohag. Among interviewed patients 85% were non-working housewives, 42.2% of them were illiterate. Questions about knowledge of breast cancer revealed that 53.33% of patients knew an acquaintance with breast cancer; however, they spent a median time of 3 months to seek medical advice after recognizing the first symptom with a delay range between a month and 72 months. We found that 73% of the participants presented to a physician with the same first recognized symptom and 75.6% didn't think of cancer then as a possible diagnosis. Total breast cancer knowledge scores had an average of 13.3 (out of 35 knowledge points), with 93% of the patients recognizing “painless breast mass” as a breast cancer symptom and 44% only recognized the concept of breast self examination. Interestingly, 61.4% identified breastfeeding as a risk factor for breast cancer, 60% did not recognize mammography as an early detection method, and 57.7% agreed that clinical breast examination (CBE) is important for early detection. Regarding management, 75% said breast cancer was potentially curable and 60% said medical care could be helpful regardless the age of presentation. ConclusionEgyptian breast cancer patients knew little about their condition. Less awareness was related to age and education level. Low knowledge of risk factors, early detection and management of breast cancer should be addressed by designing patient education programs, where less educated patients are supported by health care professionals to participate in the management of breast cancer. Moreover, we found that 67% and 97% of enrolled breast cancer patients were willing as well to participate in spreading awareness among their community and among their own families, respectively.