Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Study of Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination among Females in Jazan, Saudi Arabia

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer in females in Saudi Arabia and its incidence is steadily increasing. Late discovery and diagnosis leads to poor outcomes. This study aims to measure the knowledge and level of awareness about breast cancer among the females in Jazan and their knowledge, attitude and practice of breast self examination (BSE). A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among 440 women in the age group (20-60 years) randomly chosen from 5 health facilities. Data was collected through interview using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of four parts: socio-demographic characteristics, Knowledge about breast cancer and associated factors, practice of breast self examination (BSE) and the attitude seeking medical advice. Results show knowledge of studied women about breast cancer was low (35.6%), only 23% know about the relation of breast cancer with family history and genetic link. Educational level was significantly associated with knowledge of BSE, when to practice it and mammograms. Although 38.6% of females in the sample know how to practice BSE, only 8.4% practice it regularly and 32.2 % not regularly. Attitude about seeking medical help and practice of BSE was high (94.6%)