A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS BREAST SELF EXAMINATION PRACTICE AMONG WOMEN

Sruthi S. L.*, Dr. Arya M. S.

ABSTRACT

It is important to assess the existing practices related to breast cancer and its screening in the general population in order to design and initiate effective health promotion strategies for protecting and reducing mortality against breast cancer. Women must have enough understanding about breast self-examination and breast cancer to help them in conducting breast self-examination on a regular basis and to help in the early diagnosis of the cancer if they notice any changes in their breasts. So, this study aimed to evaluate practice of women in Thiruvananthapuram of South Kerala regarding breast self-examination. Data was collected from 233 women in age group of 20 - 60 years in Kerala. 209 (92.3%) participants were agreed that female above 20 years should practice breast self-examination frequently and 191 (84.6%) participants agreed that Breast self-examination should be made mandatory for all female. 217 (96.2%) participants agreed that female must be educated about breast self-examination. This study revealed a larger proportion of respondents have heard about breast cancer and breast self-examination but with adequate knowledge of the correct procedures of breast self-examination (BSE) thereby resulting into good practice of breast self-examination (BSE).

Keywords: Practice, Breast Cancer, Breast Self-Examination.