Knowledge of breast cancer among medical students in Syrian Private University, Syria: a cross-sectional study

• DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-02673-0
• Publication Date: 2021-05-03T11:43:03Z
• Authors: Hlma Ismail; Mosa Shibani; Hanaa Wael Zahrawi; Ali Fouad Slitin; Mhd Amin Alzabibi; Fatema Mohsen; Humam Armashi; Aliaa Bakr; Khaled Turkmani; Bisher Sawaf
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Breast cancer is the most common among women and second leading cause of death globally. Since early diagnosis crucial to reducing mortality, high levels knowledge regarding general information, risk factors, symptoms are required healthcare professionals deliver breast care. This study aimed determine Syrian medical students’ about in fields knowledge, clinical features, factors. Methods cross-sectional was conducted at Private University October 2019 (Breast Cancer Awareness Month), Damascus, during war crisis. Data were collected through self-administered surveys analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25.0 (SPSS Inc., United States). The chi-square test applied assess relationship between level gender. One way analysis variance performed overall differences mean score by year, GPA, mother’s education, source information. Unpaired Student’s T-test used analyze scores (continuous variable) based on smoking status alcohol consumption. Results Of 320 students, 301 completed questionnaire (response rate = 94.0%), which 179(59.5%) males. revealed above-average (total 68.4%) cancer, information (71.9%), features (71.6%), factors (71.6%). Clinical students (4th, 5th, 6th years) scored higher compared with pre-clinical (1st, 2nd, 3rd years). Conclusion showed cancer. More efforts correct misinformation, reassessing university curriculum promoting awareness required.