Knowledge Regarding Breast Cancer and Its Management
Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy affecting women and remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Although general awareness about breast cancer has increased, gaps persist in understanding of risk factors, warning signs and recommended screening methods. Aim: To assess the level of knowledge regarding breast cancer and its management, and to identify areas where further improvement in awareness and preventive behaviour is required. Methods: This study conceptually follows a descriptive observational approach similar to previous breast health knowledge assessments. Key domains of interest include knowledge of breast cancer symptoms, awareness of breast self-examination (BSE) and mammography, understanding of risk and protective factors, and actual practice of screening behaviour. Demographic determinants such as education, marital status and family history are considered as influential variables. Results: Awareness of BSE was moderate to high, but regular performance of BSE was low. Knowledge of mammography existed in many women, yet utilization remained limited. Most women identified hereditary factors as risks, while understanding of modifiable lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, physical inactivity and hormonal exposure was limited. Women with higher education and those with a family history demonstrated better screening practices compared to others. Conclusion: Although awareness about breast cancer has increased, translation of knowledge into preventive action is insufficient. Strengthening community-based breast health education, improving access to screening, and ensuring culturally appropriate counselling may enhance early detection and reduce breast cancer burden.
KEYWORDS: Breast cancer; Awareness; Breast Self-Examination; Mammography; Risk factors; Prevention.
