Effect Of Breast Self Examination Programme On Women's Awareness For Early Detection Of Breast Cancer

Abstract

Background: Breast self-examination is a self-inspection of the breasts, initially proposed as an intuitive, inexpensive, non-invasive, and universally accessible means of promptly identifying early-stage breast neoplasms. This study aims to evaluate the effect of breast self-examination programs on the early detection of breast cancer. Research design: A quasi-experimental design was utilized for carrying out this study. The study subjects were included 100 women in an outpatient clinic in maternity and child University Hospital. Data collection tools: Three tools were used; The first tool: A structured interviewing questionnaire which involved socio-demographic characteristics of the studied women and knowledge questions, The second tool: women's attitude Scale regarding breast self-examination; and the third tool: Women's practices Observational checklist regarding breast self-examination. Results: the main results showed that women's knowledge and attitude practices level increased post breast self-examination program and educational level of them positively affect their knowledge pre/ post-program and their attitude and practices only in pre-program. Conclusion: An extensive breast self examination program may help detect breast cancer by increasing women's knowledge, attitude, and practices toward applying it. Recommendation: Develop a regular periodic educational program for women to enhance their knowledge, attitude, and practices toward breast self-examination