Practice Of Breast Self-examination Research Articles

Determinants of breast cancer screening behavior amongst Nigerian women using the transtheoretical model

Breast cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality amongst women in developing and developed countries. Breast Self-Examination (BSE), mammography and clinical examination are amongst the most effective methods of early detection, however uptake remains low. The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) has been used in many other countries to characterize behavioral shifts related to enable the adoption of more focused tactics for improving breast cancer screening behaviors among Nigerian women. A cross-sectional research study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge and uptake of breast cancer screening practice based on the various stages of readiness and change predictors using the Transtheoretical Model (TTM). The model was applied to identify and characterise key behavioural determinants such as decision balance, stage of change, and process of change (POC) for breast cancer screening through breast self-examination and mammography. A total of 265 adult female respondents in Kaduna State, Northwest, Nigeria was sampled out of which ninety-one (91%) had no family history of breast cancer. Although 80.3% had knowledge of breast cancer disease, 68% of respondents knew how to conduct BSE and only 55% practiced it. In terms of BSE behaviour staging, 29.4% and 26.7% respondents are in the preparation and maintenance stages respectively. In terms of mammography adoption, most respondents (34%) are in the preparation stage. Review of process of change determinants show that breast cancer screening behaviour are driven more by experiential determinants as compared to behaviour determinants. Addressing the complex factors influencing BSE and mammography practice requires a comprehensive social behaviour change approach that may sustaining positive behaviour-driving factors and minimise inhibitive factors that can promote breast cancer screening.

Mammography screening among women attending primary healthcare centers in Monastir, Tunisia

Abstract Background Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women worldwide. Early detection through mammography screening improves prognosis and enhances survival rate for this disease. The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with mammography screening utilization among women attending primary healthcare centers. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in four primary healthcare centers in Monastir governorate in October 2023 using a pre-tested questionnaire. Women aged over 45 years-old were included as they were the target group in the breast cancer screening strategy. Univariate then multivariate analyses were performed in order to identify the factors associated with mammography screening utilization. Data was analyzed by SPSS 21.0. Results A total of 192 women were included in the study with a mean age of 56.7±8.8 years-old. Among them, 79.7 % (n = 153) were married and 51.6% (n = 98) had three children and less. A total of 55.3 % (n = 94) had a primary education level. Regarding participants’ practices of breast cancer screening, 35% of our participants have had mammogram. Univariate analysis showed that the knowledge about breast cancer symptoms (p = 0.015), practicing Breast self-examination (BSE) (p = 0.002), being aware about mammography (p = 0.001) and the recommended age of the screening at 45 years-old (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with adherence to breast cancer screening. Multivariate analysis revealed that practicing BSE (ORa=2.60 [95%CI: 1.22-5.55] and knowing the recommended age of mammography screening (ORa=2.28 [95%CI: 1.17-4.45] were significant (P < 0.05) predictors of mammography screening utilization. Conclusions Mammography screening rate is low. This study had provided some informations about factors influencing mammography screening. Policymakers and public health practitioners should consider the identified factors when developing intervention programs to improve breast cancer screening. Key messages • There is a need to conduct education sessions in schools to raise awareness about breast cancer screening at an early age. • Social media can be a tool for health education on mammography screening.

Evaluation of an education program upon women's knowledge toward management of Breast Self – Examination(BSE)

To determine the evaluation of education program on women's knowledge regarding managing BSE. The present quasi- experimental study, Non-probability (purposive), sample consisting of (260) women who are employee, and students in both colleges (Nursing college, Medical and Health Techniques College). The sample consist of two groups, study group (130) including those in (Nursing college), and control group (130) in (Medical and Health Techniques College). A questionnaire was constructed which included, Demographic information, Reproductive information, Family history, Previous medical history, and information about women's knowledge toward management of breast self examination (BSE). Instrument validity and reliability was determined. Data were collected through the use of the questionnaire, the application of the educational program a post-test was done for the study only which use the lectures, booklets, training practice of BSE, and video film. Analysis of data was performed through the application of descriptive and inferential statistical data analysis approach. Revealed that the women in the study group had benefited from the implementation of the educational program; their knowledge regarding managing BSE was adequately improved and developed. The study illustrated significant difference between women's knowledge means in pre and post test periods regarding their managing for BSE. Implementation of proposed model of continuous medical education for women for BSE within the scope of their work.

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.

Breast Cancer Prevention Education Through Community Empowerment and TPS (Transactional, Precise, and Skilled) Communication Model in Bontang City

The prevalence of breast cancer in Indonesia is still increasing. Datafrom the Global Cancer Observatory shows that the most common cancer case inIndonesia is breast cancer. Meanwhile, the incidence of breast and cervical cancerin Bontang City reaches 30% of the overall cancer data in Bontang (Akurasi.id,2024). Therefore, there is a need for a health promotion campaign and breast cancerprevention using simple communication methods. This program aimed to provideeducation to health cadres (PKK) in three sub-districts of Bontang, targeting 100participants. Five sub-districts were selected from each of the three sub-districts, withseven participants sampled from 10 sub-districts and six participants sampled fromfive sub-districts. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The programemployed a participatory research approach based on community empowerment,using the TPS (Transactional, Precise, and Skilled) communication model. The programwas conducted in three stages. In the first stage, theoretical information relatedto breast cancer and its prevention was provided, along with 100 questions andanswers shared online beforehand. The second stage involved practicing breast selfexamination(SADARI). The third stage combined theory and practice, incorporatingeducational strategies through games and evaluations. The program results showedthat 83% of participants agreed that knowledge about breast cancer and its preventionwas necessary. The program successfully improved the knowledge and attitudes ofPKK/health cadres through an interactive, participatory approach. Although therewere barriers related to participant agility, support from trained organizers provedeffective in overcoming them. These findings confirm the importance of healtheducation that emphasizes two-way communication and breast cancer prevention.

Promoting breast health among female adolescents: a comparative analysis of the effects of two didactic tools on knowledge and practice regarding breast self-examination in Southwest Nigeria

BackgroundTeaching effective methods for breast self-examination (BSE) to adolescent females is essential for promoting early detection and improving outcomes in breast cancer management. This study therefore aimed to compare two pedagogical tools for teaching BSE among adolescent females.MethodsA quasi-experimental design with a group for pre- and post-intervention tests was adopted. The sample included 970 female senior secondary school class I-III students. The Yamane formula was used to determine a sample size of 276. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using an observation checklist for practice and a validated questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.76 for knowledge of BSE. A proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to determine the number of participants for each group. Among the 276 participants, 161 were taught the traditional method (TM), i.e., a lecture, and 115 were taught using the modern method (MM) by watching a podcast that contained BSE lessons. Post-intervention data were collected after six weeks. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics at a 5% level of significance to compare the effectiveness of the methods.ResultsThe findings of this study showed that the participants’ mean ages across the two methods were 15.49 ± 1.65 and 15.43 ± 1.40 years for the traditional method (TM) and modern method (MM), respectively. Pre-intervention mean BSE knowledge scores in both the TM and MM groups were 8.19 ± 3.17 and 8.31 ± 2.39, respectively, and BSE practice scores were 7.17 ± 2.48 and 6.44 ± 2.75, respectively. Post-intervention knowledge mean scores in both the TM and MM groups increased to 13.75 ± 4.09 and 16.92 ± 2.91, respectively, and post-intervention practice scores increased to 13.06 ± 2.74 and 15.68 ± 3.12, respectively.ConclusionThis study revealed that both teaching methods were effective at teaching breast self-examination among female adolescents; nevertheless, modern methods are more effective at teaching breast self-examination among female adolescents.

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.

Sociodemographic drivers influencing the adoption of Breast Self-Examination amongst women in Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern globally, with a disproportionate impact on women in developing countries such as Nigeria. Early detection through practices like Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is crucial for improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Breast self-examination is a valuable tool for early breast cancer detection among Nigerian women. This paper examines the current state of BSE practice among Nigerian women, identifying factors influencing its uptake and exploring strategies for enhancing its implementation. A cross-sectional research study was conducted to assess the socio demographic determinants of uptake of breast cancer screening amongst women in Kaduna state. This study which sampled a total of 254 respondents, out of which a larger proportion (48.8%) of the respondents were between the ages of 25-34 years, reveals that 80.3% of respondents have heard about breast cancer. Amongst screening methods known, BSE is most prevalent with 77.5% (203) and 22% (57) of respondent knowing about BSE and mammography respectively with about 68% being aware of how to conduct Breast Self-Examination. A statistical significance was found between constructs of three selected socio-demographic characteristics - Age (p=0.027), level of education (p=0.000), and health insurance (p=0.000) significantly associated with women’s adoption of breast self-examination. Improving access to quality healthcare, including breast cancer screening and counselling services, is essential to accelerating adoption of BSE. Addressing the complex factors influencing BSE practice requires a comprehensive approach that combines education, community engagement, and reducing the financial barrier to accessing mammography services.

Describing the practice of breast self-examination and associated factors among female healthcare workers in Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer in women and is a global health problem. Yet, it can be a manageable disease with early diagnosis and sufficient treatment protocols, such as advanced surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiation therapies. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a screening technique that involves examining one’s breasts for lumps, distortions, or swelling, and contributes to early diagnosis of the disease. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the practice of BSE and associated factors among female healthcare workers in Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022 Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. A stratified and systematic random sampling technique was utilized to obtain respondents for the study. The data for this study were collected by professional nurses using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 20) software. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to assess relevant factors. Predictors with a p-value of < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Results: Four hundred respondents participated giving a 100% response rate. The median age of study participants was 28 years, with an inter-quartile range of six years. About two-thirds (63.8%) of the study participants had good knowledge about BSE, 46.3% had a positive attitude toward BSE, and 76.25% reported they practised BSE. Significant associations were observed with the practice of BSE and the factors of age, monthly income, and knowledge about BSE. Compared to participants 40 years and above, participants between 25–29 years [AOR=0.10; 95%CI: 0.01, 0.88] and 35–39 years [AOR=0.09; 95%CI: 0.01, 0.92] were less likely to practise BSE; those with monthly income less than 5250 ETB [AOR=0.19; 95%CI: 0.035, 0.996], and between 5251–7800 [AOR=0.16; 95%CI: 0.032, 0.78], and 7801-10900ETB [AOR=0.18; 95%CI: 0.04, 0.83] were less likely to practise BSE; and those with good knowledge about BSE [AOR=2.08; 95%CI: 1.23, 3.53] were more apt to practise BSE. Conclusion: The study showed that about three-quarters of the health workers practised BSE. Statistically significant associations were observed between BSE and the factors of age in years, monthly income, and knowledge about BSE. Keywords: breast, breast self-examination, Ethiopia, health care

Describing the practice of breast self-examination and associated factors among female healthcare workers in Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Contexte : Le cancer du sein est le cancer le plus fréquent chez les femmes; il constitue un problème de santé mondial. Il peut toutefois être gérable si le diagnostic est précoce et que les protocoles de traitement avancé (par chirurgie, chimiothérapie et radiothérapie) sont adéquats. L’auto-examen des seins a pour but de détecter la présence de bosses, de déformations ou de gonflements dans le sein, ce qui facilite le diagnostic précoce. Objectifs : L’étude, réalisée en 2022, avait pour but d’évaluer la pratique de l’auto-examen des seins et les facteurs associés chez les professionnelles de la santé travaillant au St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College d’Addis Abeba, en Éthiopie. Méthodologie : Une étude transversale a été menée en établissement, au St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. Les participants ont été recrutées par échantillonnage aléatoire systématique et stratifié. Des infirmières ont recueilli les données à l’aide de questionnaires structurés, puis les ont analysées avec la version 20 du logiciel SPSS. Des analyses de régression logistique ont été appliquées pour évaluer les facteurs pertinents. Les variables libres pour lesquelles la valeur p était supérieure à 0,05 étaient considérées statistiquement significatives. Résultats : En tout, 400 personnes ont pris part à l’étude, ce qui correspond à un taux de réponse de 100 %. L’âge médian des participantes était de 28 ans, pour un écart interquartile de 6 ans. Environ les deux tiers (63,8 %) des participantes possédaient de bonnes connaissances au sujet de l’auto-examen des seins, 46,3 % avaient une attitude positive par rapport à la technique et 76,25 % disaient la mettre en pratique. Des associations significatives ont été observées entre la pratique de l’auto-examen des seins et des facteurs comme l’âge, le revenu mensuel et les connaissances sur l’auto-examen. Comparativement aux participantes âgées de 40 ans et plus, celles qui avaient entre 25 et 29 ans (rapport de cotes ajusté [RCA] = 0,10; IC à 95 % : 0,01, 0,88) et entre 35 et 39 ans (RCA = 0,09; IC à 95 % : 0,01, 0,92) étaient moins susceptibles de pratiquer l’auto-examen des seins; les femmes dont le revenu mensuel était inférieur à 5 250 birrs (RCA = 0,19; IC à 95 % : 0,035, 0,996) ou se situait entre 5 251 et 7 800 birrs (RCA = 0.,6; IC à 95 % : 0,032, 0,78) et entre 7 801 et 10 900 birrs (RCA = 0,18; IC 95 % : 0,04, 0,83) étaient moins susceptibles de pratiquer l’auto-examen des seins; les participantes ayant de bonnes connaissances au sujet de l’auto-examen (RCA = 2,08; IC à 95 % : 1,23, 3,53) étaient plus aptes à le pratiquer. Conclusion : L’étude a révélé qu’environ les trois quarts des professionnelles de la santé pratiquaient l’auto-examen des seins. Des associations statistiquement significatives ont été observées entre la mise en pratique de la technique et des facteurs comme l’âge, le revenu mensuel et les connaissances au sujet de l’auto-examen des seins. Mots-clés : sein, auto-examen des seins, Éthiopie, soins de santé

A Systematic Review of Women's Knowledge and Practices Regarding Breast Self-Examination

Globally, breast cancer is the primary cause of death. Non-pharmacological therapy involving knowledge and practice of breast self-examination (BSE) is a straightforward, incredibly affordable, non-invasive initial diagnostic technique for early breast cancer diagnosis. The objective of this study is to examine women's knowledge and practices about breast self-examination. The method is a systematic review using PRISMA. Data sourced from searches in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were conducted to identify relevant published studies. The data was restricted to English-language articles on women's knowledge and practice of breast self-examination published during the previous five years. The results show 15 articles that explain the knowledge and practice of breast self-examination carried out by women. The majority of women have heard of BSE but do not fail to carry out BSE regularly every month. The majority of evaluated studies demonstrated a notable correlation between participants' knowledge of breast cancer and their age, marital status, and level of education. The conclusion is that women's knowledge and practice of breast self-examination are still lacking. Hence, it is imperative to develop techniques that might enhance the awareness and adoption of breast self-examination. Although breast self-examination is generally part of a prevention and monitoring strategy, it does not replace medical or pharmacological care. The contribution of this study is to provide information that breast self-examination has several important contributions in the context of breast health and early detection of breast cancer.

Breast self-examination knowledge, attitude, and practice among Jazan women, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It is a major cause of cancer death, and its incidence rate has been gradually increasing in the Arab world, Saudi Arabia has a higher proportion of young females getting breast cancer than other countries. This study was conducted to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding breast self-examination among females from 20 to 60 years old in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia. Using A Community-based descriptive cross-sectional approach, data were gathered from 567 Saudi and non-Saudi women using structured interviews and then analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM) version 21.0 software program. Where the study indicated that around half of the participants (55.7%) had good total knowledge scores regarding breast self-examination, and most had positive attitudes. However, only 205 (36.2%) respondents practice it regularly. Moreover, the study reveals a significant association between respondents' knowledge and attitudes toward breast self-examination (P = 0.05). These findings indicate moderate knowledge, poor breast self-examination practices, and a significant association between knowledge and attitudes. Therefore, conducting health education programs is necessary to raise awareness about breast self-examination (BSE) among Jazan women.

Predicting Breast Self-Examination Practices among Catholic Nuns in Tanzania's Lake Zone: A Health Belief Model Approach

Background: Early breast cancer detection is crucial for improving breast cancer outcomes. Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a valuable tool that can empower Catholic nuns to take charge of their health, particularly in constrained resource countries like Tanzania. This study aims to use the Health Belief Model (HBM) to predict SBE practices among Catholic nuns in Tanzania's Lake Zone. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design whereby a total of 385 catholic nuns were enrolled to participate in the study. The Health Beliefs Model (HBM) guided the study of the interrelated variables related to self-breast examination. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using Stata version 18.0. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to test for association at a 5% significant level. Results: The prevalence of non-performance self-breast examination was 64.2% (95% CI, 59.1%-69.0%). The multivariate logistic regression revealed that nuns who are in the non-health field were more likely not to perform self-breast cancer examination with an AOR of 1.67 (95% CI, 1.02-2.73, p=0.041). Likewise, nuns with high barrier were more likely not to perform self-breast cancer examination with an AOR of 1.88 (95% CI, 1.17-3.02, p=0.009), also, an AOR of 2.25 (95% CI, 1.39-3.65, p=0.001) for nuns with low self-efficacy. Conclusion: The study revealed that the HBM constructs can predict the SBE behavior of catholic nuns. In addition, educational health interventions are highly recommended to enhance SBE practice among this special group.

Evaluation of the Level of Awareness and Knowledge of Self-Examination and Mammography Examination among a Group of Libyan Women in Misurata City

Cancer is one of the significant public health problems in the world. Also, breast cancer is a malignant cell, which may start in the breast tissue. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, non-invasive, and low-cost, to detect any changes in breast tissue at an early time. This study aims to assess the awareness and knowledge of BSE and mammography examination among females with different levels of education in city of Misurata-Libya. This study used validated questionnaire divided into two sections. The data collection was from December 2021 to May 2022. 550 questionnaires were distributed to adult volunteers who attending an out-patient clinic at a hospital clinic and/or students and teaching staff at Faculty of medical technology in Misurata. There was a high return rate with 460 (83.63%) returned in total. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 24 (IBM, Armonk NY). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The study showed that 14.8% of the participants practiced BSE practice as a monthly routine. However, the majority of respondents 251 (54.6%) in this study were rarely do the BSE practice. 92.17% of participants had very low knowledge about the mammography examination. The results of this study have demonstrated the extremely low level of awareness of breast mammography examination and performing BSE was particularly low among Misurata Libyan woman community.

Breast self-examination among female medical students at Damascus University: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionBreast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of death in Syria. In young females, it is a serious complication, making it crucial to raise awareness about the disease and its early detection methods. Given the challenging circumstances that Syrians face, regular visits to medical centers for mammography are often not feasible. Therefore, breast self-examination (BSE) is a valuable tool for detecting cancer. Educating girls in medical colleges is key to disseminating knowledge about BSE among women, as they will become future healthcare providers and can share accurate information with their families. Materials and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in the medical faculties of Damascus University (medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy), Syria. The study utilized a structured questionnaire on Google Forms with four sections. The questionnaire was prepared electronically, and shared as an online link in formal university groups on social media. Data collection started on September 19, 2022, and ended on October 19 of the same year. Participation was accepted from female students in medical colleges, ranging from second to fifth year (for dental and pharmacy students) and sixth year (for medical students). Data from other students and incomplete data were excluded. Results589 female medical students from three faculties (medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy) filled out the questionnaire. Only 57 % of the students demonstrated a good attitude towards BSE, and 79.6 % of them agreed or strongly agreed that they avoid BSE due to fear of the consequences of breast cancer. Regarding BSE knowledge, 89.6 % of the participants reported previously hearing about BSE, and 55.7 % of them had performed BSE before. The factors that were accompanied by better knowledge about BSE were: a good attitude towards BSE; previously performed BSE; studying in a medical faculty; study years for medical and pharmacy students; and higher college average grades. Whereas, having a medical relative and having a family member with a history of BC surprisingly do not impact the knowledge. ConclusionThe study, conducted at Damascus University in Syria, assessed the knowledge and practice of breast self-examination among female medical college students. The results indicate a moderate level of knowledge and limited practical experience in performing breast self-examination. These findings highlight the urgent need to emphasize the importance of promoting and teaching this method to a wider population of women in society.

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.

Digital media intervention for breast cancer awareness among rural women: A quasi-experimental study from Bihar, India

ObjectivesSocial media-based interventions have the potential to endure improvements in the health-seeking behaviors of the users. The upswing rate of social media usage among rural women of Bihar (India) allows for improving their knowledge, attitude, and practice toward breast cancer which is a big concern in resource-limited countries. This study attempted to evaluate the impact of video-based intervention in advancing knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, symptoms and attitude, and and practice to conduct breast cancer screening. MethodsA quasi-experimental design study was conducted among rural women in Bihar, India using pretest-posttest method. Validated YouTube Hindi videos were shared in a series as an intervention for the participants. The impact of the intervention videos was assessed by analyzing the 267 fully filled up questionnaires. Additionally, demographic characteristics were calculated and their relationship with knowledge, attitude, and practices was evaluated. ResultsAfter three months of the intervention there was a statistically significant (<0.0001) improvement (100 %) in the knowledge level of risk factors, symptoms, and screening of breast cancer. Their attitude towards breast self-examination significantly improved in 58 % of women whereas 16.5 % for clinical breast examination and 9.7 % for mammogram (<0.0001). The practice of breast self-examination significantly improved in 60 % (<0.0001) of women. Some demographic variables like education, age, and occupation were found significant predictors of breast cancer awareness. ConclusionsThis study's findings highlight that beyond all resource limitations for health awareness, a video intervention model through social media could offer a viable solution from the rural India experience to a possible shared discussion. Further study may be conducted using customized cancer awareness video interventions considering vernacular needs to make interventions more impactful.

Breast Cancer Prevention Practices and Knowledge in Italian and Chinese Women in Italy: Clinical Checkups, Free NHS Screening Adherence, and Breast Self-Examination (BSE).

Breast cancer remains a significant global concern, underscoring the critical need for early detection and prevention strategies. Primary and secondary preventive measures, such as routine screenings and behaviors like breast self-examination (BSE), play a crucial role in facilitating early diagnosis. While the National Health System (NHS) in Italy offers free regular screenings for women aged 50-69, there is a lack of clarity regarding the participation of both Italian and Chinese women residing in Italy in these screening programs. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by thoroughly assessing the involvement in regular clinical check-ups and the types of screening employed, the adherence to free screenings offered by the NHS, and the practice of BSE among women aged 50-69 of these two groups. Furthermore, it investigates their knowledge and perceptions regarding breast cancer and BSE. Results reveal disparities in breast cancer control practice between Italian and Chinese women in Italy: the former demonstrates higher adherence to clinical checkups (53% vs. 3%, p < 0.001), while both groups show low participation in free NHS screenings (70% vs. 4%, p < 0.001). Additionally, Chinese women reported significantly lower frequency of mammography (96% vs. 33%, p < 0.001) and ultrasound (69% vs. 16%, p < 0.001). The frequency of BSE also differed substantially, with 47% of Chinese women never performing BSE compared to 12% of Italian women (p < 0.001). This comprehensive exploration provides valuable insights, attitudes, and knowledge into the disparities and potential areas for improvement in breast cancer prevention, thus contributing to the overall well-being of these communities. The findings highlight the necessity for educational initiatives aimed at improving awareness and participation in screenings, particularly among the Chinese population. These initiatives could have profound implications for patient education by equipping women with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in proactive health behaviors.

Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria

This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination (BSE) among adult women in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Breast cancer, a leading neoplasm among women, presents a significant global health challenge due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 400 adult women, employing a structured questionnaire to collect data. The findings reveal a high level of awareness about breast cancer, with 98.5% of participants demonstrating good knowledge and 93.5% exhibiting positive attitudes toward BSE. However, only 77.5% of respondents practiced BSE regularly. The study underscores the importance of early detection facilitated by BSE, particularly in resource-limited settings, as 86.3% of participants identified increasing age as a risk factor, and 100% recognized lumps in the breast as a symptom. Despite this awareness, many women do not practice BSE consistently due to misconceptions and lack of motivation. The research highlights the necessity of enhancing public awareness and education on BSE through mass media and healthcare providers to improve early breast cancer detection and reduce mortality rates. It recommends that healthcare workers promote BSE during interactions with female clients and serve as role models by adopting preventive screening measures themselves. This approach could significantly impact breast cancer control and improve health outcomes among women in the community. The study concludes that while knowledge and attitudes toward BSE are generally positive, consistent practice remains a challenge that must be addressed through targeted awareness and education initiatives.