Knowledge of breast cancer and breast self-examination practices and its barriers among university female students in Bangladesh: Findings from a cross-sectional study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270417
• Publication Date: 2022-06-28T18:28:04Z
• Authors: Rumpa Sarker; Md. Saiful Islam; Mst. Sabrina Moon...; Mahmudur Rahman; Hailay Abrha Gesesew; Paul R. Ward
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study; Breast self-examination

Early diagnosis of breast cancer is the best approach towards its control that may result in alleviating related mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge about both practices perceived barriers self-examination among female university students Bangladesh. A cross-sectional was carried out with 400 Jahangirnagar University, Participants were sampled from dormitories at January April 2020. Proportionate stratified random sampling conducted calculate sample each dormitory. validated semi-structured self-reported questionnaire employed collect data participants during survey periods. The consisted demographic variables, items cancer, barriers. We applied descriptive inferential statistics analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). aged between 18–26 years comprised first year (20%), second (24%), third (22%), fourth (21%) Master’s (14%). 18% them reported positive family history (mother, aunt, sister/cousin, grandmother) cancer. overall mean score total 15 (SD = 3) 43, an correct rate 34%. significantly higher ( p <0.001) members who have had Only one five ever practiced self-examination. practice having member Total correlated other r 0.54; <0.001). About 33% ‘lack knowledge’ as main barrier practicing followed by ‘I do not symptoms’ ‘shyness/ uncomfortable feelings’ (17%). revealed low levels practices. Our findings highlight need develop, implement promote socially, culturally demographically appropriate educational interventions programs awareness