A Survey on Breast Cancer Awareness Among Medical, Paramedical, and General Population in North India Using Self-Designed Questionnaire: a Prospective Study

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) has become the most common cancer in urban women. Unfortunately, most women are not aware of BC symptoms/signs, prevention, and management. In resource-limited countries like India where we do not have structured screening/awareness programs, a majority of women present with locally advanced BC. The aim of our study is to identify the present status of awareness about BC prevention, early detection, symptoms, and management in urban and rural Indian women (medical, paramedical, and nonmedical) and to assess whether education and socioeconomic strata have any role in better awareness about BC or not. We did a prospective cross-sectional observation study among the medical, paramedical, and nonmedical women in the northern part of India. We designed a questionnaire keeping in mind the three domains about BC-knowledge (questions 1-25 include risk factors, genetics, lifestyle changes, hormones, associated cancers, and modes of presentation like lump, nipple/skin changes), breast self

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to breast cancer screening among female health care professionals: a cross sectional study

“…As regards to the practice of screening methods, results from studies conducted in other developing countries have not been very encouraging either. An important barrier in other countries is financial constraints [16, 18, 28]. However, this is not a concern in the KSA where healthcare facilities are provided free of cost.…”

“…Data were collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested, and self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed from previous studies after an in depth literature review [14–18, 20–22]. Before administering the questionnaire to the study population, the face validity of the questionnaire was ensured by a committee of experts in research methodology, obstetrics and gynecology, and oncology.…”

“…Several studies have been conducted in other developing countries to assess the knowledge and practices of breast cancer screening both in the general population as well as specifically in healthcare professionals [14–18]. In KSA, also several similar studies have been conducted on the general population [19].…”

Care Plan for Reducing Stigma in Cancer Disease

“…The social experiences of women and their beliefs point to untreatable and severe fear of cancer, and the fear of cancer stigma and the tragic nature of the disease delay the search for medical assistance[31]. Researchers suggest one of the main causes of delay in referring is social stigma of cancer, economic pressures and other organizational barriers[23] [35]. Cultural and educational efforts can increase awareness and reduce the stigma of cancer[27].…”

“…Cultural and educational efforts can increase awareness and reduce the stigma of cancer[27]. Ramacant et al have talked about raising awareness of breast cancer through mass media and television, street camps and colleges, along with group discussions and debates[35]. Expressing successes in cancer through media by providing information on issues such as reducing the incidence of cancer (where applicable), promoting screening and early detection programs, treatment approaches, palliative care, survivors of cancer, governmental efforts in controlling and preventing cancer, new research, or cancer-related investments and operations, reduce the stigma associated with cancer[20].…”