Impact of a Breast Cancer Educational Program on Female University Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is a worldwide fatal cancer among females. Efforts fighting against this disease should start with females at younger ages. This study evaluated the effectiveness a BC educational program in promoting female university students' knowledge and attitudes towards BC and practices of breast self-examination (BSE). A pre- and post-test design was used in two phases; pre- and post-intervention phase. A 1-day educational program was conducted with theoretical and practical educational sessions. Participants were evaluated twice (before and 2 weeks after the intervention) for the following variables: knowledge regarding BC warning signs, BC risk factors and knowledge in regard to BSE, in addition to their attitudes and practices of BSE. A total of 110 participants were randomized into either intervention (n = 64, 58.2%) or control group (n = 46, 41.8%). Analysis revealed that participants in both groups had relatively low level of knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor practice towards BC and BSE before attending the intervention. Analysis of the post test revealed that participants in the interventional group had significant improvement in knowledge, positive attitudes, and more practice of BSE compared to participants in the control group. The implementation of a BC awareness program had positive effects on the female university students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding BC and BSE. Findings from this study strengthen and reinforce the importance of conducting such awareness programs for this young age group.

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