AWARENESS AND PRACTICE OF BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION AMONG FEMALE MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women globally and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in low- and middle-income countries, including Pakistan. Enhancing skills with Breast self-examination will not only improve their own health behaviors but also prepare them to effectively educate the wider community.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the awareness and practice of breast self-examination among female medical students.

METHODOLOGY: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro and Thatta, Pakistan, using non-probability convenience sampling. A total of 42 female medical students aged 18-30 years, enrolled in any year of medical studies. Females who had breast cancer or females who refused to participate were excluded from this study. Data was collected through a proforma which included consent of the participants and their demographic data along with a well-structured questioner focusing on areas like family history of breast cancer, awareness, knowledge and practice of BSE

RESULT:  Mean age of participants were 20.9 years (SD ± 1.8), 34% were in their first year and 33.3% in the third year of study; 13.20% were married and 15.1% had a family history of breast cancer. Findings revealed that 75.5% of participants had heard about BSE, and 66% correctly recognized its purpose as early detection of breast cancer. However, only 39.6% knew that BSE should be performed monthly, and a majority (75.5%) lacked knowledge of the correct BSE technique. Practice was moderate, with 35.80% having ever performed BSE. Major barriers to regular practice included lack of knowledge (45.30%) and fear of detecting a lump (24.5%).

CONCLUSION: While awareness of BSE among female medical students is high, there is a significant gap in knowledge about correct technique and consistent practice. Educational programs targeting these gaps are essential to improve skill and confidence in performing BSE regularly. Moreover, addressing psychological barriers such as fear could further enhance regular practice and Implement comprehensive BSE training early in medical curricula to ensure proper technique and regular practice.