Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, and Technique of Breast Examination among Women in Passo Community, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria

Yalma RM; Abba Judith Ufedooj

doi:10.46795/ijhcbs.v6i2.698

Yalma RM Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Abuja, Nigeria
Abba Judith Ufedooj Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Abuja, Nigeria

DOI https://doi.org/10.46795/ijhcbs.v6i2.698

Abstract

Breast cancer is a leading cause of mortality among women globally, with poorer outcomes in developing countries due to late detection. Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a low-cost, accessible tool for early detection. This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, practice, and technique (KAPT) of BSE among women in Passo community, Gwagwalada, Abuja. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 252 women aged 15 years and above. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. SPSS version 23 was used for analysis. Chi-square tests were applied to test associations, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant. While 56.5% of respondents had good knowledge, only 32.7%had good practice and 29.7% demonstrated good technique. However, 69.1% had a good attitude toward BSE. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge and education (p < 0.001), practice and occupation (p = 0.01), and technique with both education (p = 0.006) and occupation (p = 0.019). Although awareness and attitudes toward BSE are high, practical implementation and technique remain poor. Community-based health education is essential to bridge the gap between awareness and effective practice.

Keywords: Breast Cancer, Breast Self-Examination, Knowledge, Practice, Technique, Nigeria

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