Awareness and Practices Concerning Breast Cancer: A Study on Women's Knowledge and Attitudes
Keywords:
Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Knowledge, Knowledge, Attitude, Attitude, Practice, Practice, Women’s Health, Women’s Health, Early Detection, Early Detection, Screening Barriers, Screening Barriers, Health Education, Health EducationAbstract
Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the awareness, attitudes, knowledge, and practices (KAP) related to breast cancer and Breast Self-Examination (BSE) among women. It explores their understanding of risk factors, early detection methods, and perceived barriers to breast health awareness and screening.
Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms. The study included 346 first-degree female relatives of patients visiting the Radiology Department, as well as female patients attending OPD, IPD, and Emergency units at Santosh Hospital, Uttar Pradesh. The questionnaire comprised 30 items covering subjective domains such as susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, self-efficacy, and overall knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) concerning breast cancer. Demographic data including age, marital status, occupation, education level, and alcohol use were also collected.
Results: The findings revealed that a significant proportion of female participants lacked adequate awareness and understanding of breast cancer and BSE. While a majority had heard of BSE, actual knowledge and consistent practice were limited. Key barriers identified were lack of information, fear, embarrassment, and insufficient access to awareness programs. A strong correlation was observed between awareness levels and factors such as occupation, marital status, and personal medical history.
Conclusion: The study highlights a critical gap in breast cancer awareness and BSE practice among women. Although BSE is known by many, its understanding and application remain inconsistent. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted educational interventions and community-based awareness campaigns to promote early detection and reduce breast cancer morbidity and mortality.
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