Knowledge, attitude, and practice of breast self-examination among women attending primary health care facility, Menoufia Governorate, Egypt

ObjectivesTo evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of breast self-examination (BSE) among female in childbearing period (18–49 years old) in Menoufia Governorate.BackgroundBSE is a process whereby women examine their breasts regularly to detect any abnormal swelling or lumps to seek prompt medical attention. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among females in developed and developing countries. The early detection of breast cancer is the most important and beneficial area of protective techniques and has been positively linked with decrease of mortality and morbidity owing to the illness.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on women attending primary health care facilities in Menoufia Governorate, Egypt. A total of 271 women were included and subjected to predesigned questionnaire to assess their knowledge, attitude, and practice for BSE.ResultsIt was found that 79.7% respondents were aware of BSE. The mass media were the major sources of information (68.4%), whereas the health workers accounted for only 14%. The attitude of participants to health information on BSE was positive. Despite the positive attitude to BSE, its knowledge and practice were low (33.6 and 39.2% had unsatisfactory knowledge and bad practice, respectively). Women with higher level of education (P = 0.009) and those employed in professional jobs (P = 0.001) were significantly more knowledgeable about BSE.Conclusion and recommendationsThere was low level of knowledge about BSE. The attitude of participant was generally positive, but the rate of practicing BSE was low. We recommend the establishment of institutional framework and policy guidelines that will enhance adequate and urgent dissemination of information about breast cancer and BSE to all women in Menoufia.