Publication:

Awareness and practices on breast cancer and breast self-examination among women residing in an urban area, Manipur: a cross-sectional study

Background Breast cancer accounts for nearly 18% of all female cancers worldwide, with over one million new cases diagnosed annually. Despite the potential benefits of early detection, the practice of breast self-examination (BSE) remains low. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of breast cancer and BSE and their associated factors among women in an urban area of Manipur.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged ≥20 years residing in Langol, Manipur, from May to June 2024. A total of 300 participants were selected using cluster sampling and interviewed using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 25. Chi-square test was applied to assess associations, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results The mean age of participants was 36.6±10.97 years. Of the total, 81.3% had heard of breast cancer, but knowledge regarding symptoms and risk factors was poor. Only 32.7% had heard of BSE, and among them, 42% practiced it. However, regular practice was low. Factors significantly associated with awareness of breast cancer included age, education, and family history (p<0.05). Awareness of BSE was significantly associated with education, occupation, number of children, and prior awareness of breast cancer (p<0.05).

Conclusions Although many had heard of breast cancer, there was inadequate awareness on breast cancer and BSE practice. Targeted health education interventions are essential to improve awareness and promote early detection practices.