Breast Cancer Awareness, Attitude and Screening Practices Among University Students: Intervention Needed

Samina Rafique*¹, Zainab Waseem² and Fatima Sheerin³

Received: May 14, 2018;   Published: May 22, 2018

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2018.04.001100

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Abstract

Background: Breast cancer has become an important public health problem especially in Southeast Asia. This study intended to explore about knowledge of breast cancer symptoms and risk factors and self-reported practice of breast self-examination among the students of a public sector university of Pakistan.

Methods: This study was carried out in Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, Pakistan from 3rd of July 2017 to 10th July 2017. Data was collected on a structured questionnaire covering demographic status, knowledge about symptoms and risk factors of breast cancer and practice of breast self-examination. Analysis was done by descriptive statistics and chi-square test where necessary.

Results: A total of 304 students contributed in the study. Average age of the participant was 22.6 ± 2 years. Over all more than 55% of the girls were aware of the risk factors. Only 25% of the female students recognized breast lump as the main symptom of the breast cancer. Many (37.5%) had no idea about the diagnostic modalities and 23% practiced breast self-examination.

Conclusion: finding of the study highlight that non-medical students of BZU only have only limited knowledge about breast cancer and there exists a wide gap between knowledge and practice of breast self-examination. Awareness campaigns and education programs should be intensified in order to bridge this gap.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Breast self-examination; Practice

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