Assess Knowledge and Practice of Regular Breast Self-examination among Female Employee of ITM Trust Member

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Diagnosis of breast cancer at an earlier stage increases the chance of long-term survival. Breast self-examination (BSE) once in month contributes to a woman’s heightened awareness of what is normal for her.

Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge and practice of regular BSEs among female employee of ITM trust, Mumbai.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive questionnaire study was conducted on female employee of ITM trust. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice regarding BSE in female employees. Data were collected by self-administered pretest closed-ended questionnaire. This study involved a cohort 150 female of whom, 145 completed questionnaire. 80% of respondent were not aware that BSE is the best method for breast cancer screening. 86.4% of respondent were not knowing the correct technique of BSE. Means and standard deviation and categorical variables were described using frequency distribution and percentage.

Results: Knowledge and practice were categorized into good or poor based on 70% of point out of the total expected score for each P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Most of the respondents have inadequate knowledge about risk factors and early signs and symptoms of breast cancer, in the level of practice of BSE about 86.12% of women have expressed their view that it is easy and reliable primary method of early breast cancer detection.

Conclusion: The study highlights that the need for educational program is create awareness regarding regular BSE screening behavior.