Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Breast Self-Examination among Women of Reproductive Age

Breast cancer remains a major health problem among women, and early detection plays an important role in increasing the opportunity for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, low-cost, and accessible method that can be performed routinely at home to identify abnormal changes in the breast at an early stage. This study aimed to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and BSE practices among women of childbearing age in Sei Putih Barat Village, Medan Petisah District. An analytical survey using a cross-sectional design was conducted among 110 women of childbearing age who were selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire covering respondents’ knowledge, attitudes, and BSE practices. The collected data were analyzed using bivariate analysis with the chi-square test and odds ratios (ORs) to determine the strength of associations between variables. The results showed that most respondents had inadequate knowledge (75.5%), negative attitudes (83.6%), and inadequate BSE practices (66.36%). Knowledge was significantly associated with BSE practice (p = 0.021), with respondents who had adequate knowledge being 3.43 times more likely to perform BSE adequately. Attitude demonstrated a stronger association with BSE practice (p 0.001), with respondents who had positive attitudes being 14.53 times more likely to perform BSE adequately. These findings indicate that both knowledge and attitudes are significantly associated with BSE practices among women of childbearing age. Therefore, interventions aimed at improving BSE practices should integrate health education, practical guidance, and strategies designed to strengthen positive attitudes and perceptions toward early breast cancer detection and prevention