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AlWaheidi S, Sullivan R, Davies EA. Breast Cancer in Women in Gaza: A Review of Clinical Characteristics and Short-Term Survival. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300170. [PMID: 38991184 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand how breast cancer is diagnosed in Gaza, and disease stage distribution, treatment, and survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS A clinical record case series study of women diagnosed in 2017 and 2018 was conducted with follow-up until December 31, 2020. Breast cancer crude incidence rates and age-specific incidence rates were calculated. Clinical characteristics, including investigation, diagnosis, and treatment methods by year of diagnosis, were compared using the chi-square test. The 2-year cumulative risk of death from any cause was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regressions estimated hazard ratios and their 95% CIs. RESULTS Five hundred twenty-four new diagnoses (mean age, 53 years; range, 23-100) were recorded, giving a crude annual incidence rate of 27 per 100,000 population. Six percent (32/524) were diagnosed at stage I, 35% (185/524) at stage II, 33% (171/524) at stage III, and 19% (99/524) at stage IV. More than one half (52%, 271/524) underwent modified radical mastectomy. Seventy-seven percent (405/524) received chemotherapy, 70% (368/524) hormone therapy, and 39% (204/524) radiotherapy. Data on key prognostic factors were mostly available-stage (93%), estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2; 82%), tumor grade (77%), and tumor size (70%). The overall survival was 95.4% at 1 year and 86.6% at 2 years. CONCLUSION Women with breast cancer in Gaza have a high short-term survival after diagnosis. However, one half were diagnosed with advanced disease, and their investigations were incomplete. Better reporting on family history, tumor grade, size, and ER, PR, and HER2 receptor status is needed for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaymaa AlWaheidi
- Centre for Cancer, Society & Public Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, King's Health Partners Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth A Davies
- Centre for Cancer, Society & Public Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Radhakrishnan S, Shah PB. Women's Perspective on Self-Breast Examination. Cureus 2024; 16:e58962. [PMID: 38707074 PMCID: PMC11069221 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women in the world. Timely detection is important to reduce the rate of deaths. Among the various screening modalities, self-breast examination is suggested as an easy, inexpensive method, especially in low-resource settings. Objective To understand women's perspective on self-breast examination and analyze the benefits and barriers of self-breast examination. Method The total number of study participants was 100. After obtaining informed consent, the study participants were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire on their perspective towards self-breast examination along with the benefits and barriers of performing the examination. Results Among the study participants, 66% of women were aware of self-breast examination. Only 8% were aware of the age to begin self-breast examination. Lack of privacy was considered as a barrier in 18% of women and embarrassment as a barrier was 14%. Almost all (99%) agreed that completing a self-breast examination each month may help them find breast lumps early. Conclusion The participants were reasonably aware of the term self-breast examination. But the clearcut procedure, the age to begin the examination and changes to be picked up on the examination were all unknown and hence must be emphasized at the society level. Overcoming the barriers and accepting the benefits of self-breast examinations are necessary to adopt this examination as a regular practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susithra Radhakrishnan
- Community Medicine, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, IND
| | - Pankaj B Shah
- Community Medicine, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, IND
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Alshafie M, Soqia J, Alhomsi D, Alameer MB, Yakoub-Agha L, Saifo M. Knowledge and practice of breast self-examination among breast cancer patients in Damascus, Syria. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:73. [PMID: 38281922 PMCID: PMC10822174 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02912-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) represents an important cause of cancer death, its incidence rate has been rising gradually in the Arab world, and in Syria, BC is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death; its prognosis gets better as we detect it early in its first stages. So, it is very important to implement one or more early detection methods such as Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Clinical Breast Examination (CBE), and mammography. BSE represents an effective method to find out changes in breast structure when they happen. This study investigates the knowledge of BSE and its practice in BC patients. METHODS A quantitative cross-sectional study in Al-Bairouni hospital in Damascus-Syria was carried out using face-to-face interviews based on a structured questionnaire, which consisted of 4 sections. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using various analytical tests, including the independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Chi-square test. RESULTS Five hundred patients were interviewed. Only 27.4% of patients had a good knowledge of BSE, 17.4% had average knowledge, and 55.2% had low knowledge of BSE. The factors that have an impact on the knowledge of BSE were: family breast cancer history (first and second-degree relatives), education, and the region of living (between governorates). The effect of knowledge of BSE on its practice was positive. However, only 24.8% of patients have been practicing BSE; the reasons for not practicing BSE were: no one has told the patient about it (64.8% of cases), and the patient does not have any symptoms relating to the breast (21.4%).Breast cancer was identified through breast self-examination (BSE) in 15.6% of cases. CONCLUSION There is a low degree of knowledge and little practice of BSE among Syrian breast cancer patients. Family breast cancer history, governate, occupation, and level of education had a statistically significant effect on knowledge scores of BSE, unlike age and social status. So, some steps should be taken to increase awareness about BSE among Syrian females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alshafie
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic.
| | - Jameel Soqia
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
| | - Dima Alhomsi
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
| | | | - Laila Yakoub-Agha
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
| | - Maher Saifo
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
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Hijrah H, Usman AN, Sanusi Baso Y, Syarif S, Ahmad M, Nulandari Z. Influence of variables on breast self-examination: Potential barrier or enhancement of breast cancer prevention. Breast Dis 2024; 43:145-155. [PMID: 38820008 PMCID: PMC11191488 DOI: 10.3233/bd-249001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast self-examination (BSE) is an important tool for early detection of breast cancer and can contribute to increased awareness and familiarity with breast tissue. This study aimed to review factors that influenced BSE in preventing breast cancer. METHODS In the initial stage of searching for journal articles, 186 journals were obtained, then screening was carried out within a time span of 2019-2024 and using Indonesian and English 54 journals. Of the 12 journals reviewed, the results showed that 4 journals reviewed had conducted pre and post-BSE practices, and 8 journal reviews conducted BSE practices conducted by students and health workers. RESULTS Several factors play an important role in implementing BSE, namely age, knowledge, history of exposure to information, family history, ethnicity, and attitude. Overall, the study shows that the need to create awareness and educate women, especially rural women, on the importance of BSE as a preventive measure for breast cancer is paramount. CONCLUSIONS Factors influencing the implementation of BSE can be a barrier or an enhancement in breast cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hijrah Hijrah
- Midwifery Study Program, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Andi Nilawati Usman
- Midwifery Study Program, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Yusring Sanusi Baso
- Learning Media Center, Learning Resources and E-Learning, Hasanuddin University , Indonesia
| | - Syafruddin Syarif
- Department of Engineering, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Mardiana Ahmad
- Midwifery Study Program, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Zafitri Nulandari
- Midwifery Study Program, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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Indah N, Nilawati Usman A, Sanusi Baso Y, Syarif S, Ahmad M, Agus Mumang A. Early detection of self-breast examination using smartphone breast application. Breast Dis 2024; 43:135-144. [PMID: 38820009 PMCID: PMC11191427 DOI: 10.3233/bd-249004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast self-examination (BSE) is a screening method that can help empower, raise awareness, and detect breast abnormalities in women. The use of smartphone applications for breast cancer early detection is able to overcome some of these barriers. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the effectiveness of the effect of using smartphone application-based technology on breast cancer. METHODS Google Scholar, PubMed, Proquest, and ScienceDirect were searched for "breast self-examination" and "smartphone application" literature. This literature's study designs were quasi-experimental, prospective cohort, qualitative, and systematic review. The study contained five unique research projects with 828 varied participants. RESULTS The use of smartphones was seen to have advantages in terms of increased knowledge, perceived vulnerability, barriers to breast self-examination (BSE), self-efficacy, health motivation, and BSE practices. CONCLUSIONS The utilization of smartphone apps related to BSE is shown through the availability, accessibility, and focus of information and is in line with the Health Belief Model (HBM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Indah
- Department of Midwifery, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Andi Nilawati Usman
- Department of Midwifery, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Yusring Sanusi Baso
- Learning Media Center, Learning Resources and E-Learning, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Syafruddin Syarif
- Department of Engineering, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Mardiana Ahmad
- Department of Midwifery, Graduate School, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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Jobran AWM, Banat MA, Awad BY, Warasna HJ, Taqatqa YR, Jawabreh M, Abualrub YR, Brimo Alsaman MZ, Owais TA, Salman S. Breast cancer knowledge and practice of breast self-examination among Palestinian female, West Bank: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1678. [PMID: 37927537 PMCID: PMC10620115 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Worldwide, breast cancer (BC) is the most frequently discovered tumor in women. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a helpful screening method that gives women more control over their bodies by educating them about the structures of their breasts and assisting in the early detection of any developing breast abnormalities. The purpose of this research was to assess Palestinian girls' degree of BSE awareness and practice. Method A self-administered questionnaire was used to gauge participants' knowledge about BC and associated topics. Through an online survey, all girls above the age of 20 are encouraged to take part in the study. Female university students at academic levels I, II, III, and IV in Palestine were also invited to participate in the study by way of an online survey. Results The study included 467 female participants, with 69% of the individuals being single. The majority of females (68.7%) scored poorly on knowledge of BC disease (possible risk, methods of detection, methods of diagnosis, methods of treatment, signs and symptoms, information about mammography, and other knowledge questions), whereas only 31.7% scored well. Conclusion BC, which is thought to be the most common malignant development among them and the second leading cause of cancer mortality, is one of the issues that women in the West Bank face. Screening methods are crucial for the early detection of BC and for lowering disease-related morbidity and mortality. It has been advised that starting at age 20, every woman should take the BSE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamad A. Banat
- Faculty of MedicinePalestine Polytechnic UniversityHebronPalestine
| | | | - Haya J. Warasna
- Faculty of MedicinePalestine Polytechnic UniversityHebronPalestine
| | | | - Mahmoud Jawabreh
- Faculty of MedicinePalestine Polytechnic UniversityHebronPalestine
| | | | | | | | - Saif Salman
- Departments of Neurological Surgery, Neurology and Critical CareMayo ClinicJacksonvilleFloridaUSA
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Awogbayila M, Onasoga O, Jibril U, Oluwafemi F, Orok E. Assessment of breast cancer risk perception, knowledge, and breast self-examination practices among market women in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:556. [PMID: 37891548 PMCID: PMC10604800 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02711-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, and its incidence is increasing, particularly in low-medium-income countries (LMICs). Evidence shows that breast self-examination (BSE) is culturally acceptable, religiously friendly and inexpensive. This study assessed BC risk perception, knowledge and breast self-examination practices among market women in Ondo State, Nigeria. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among market women in 3 selected markets in Owo. A semi-structured interview-based questionnaire was used to collect data. The instrument consisted of five sections based on the objective of the study. Selection of the study participants was done using a multistage sampling technique. The test-retest method was used to determine the reliability of the instrument. Participants knowledge and practices were categorised into good (≥ 50% total score) and poor (< 50% total score) while risk perception was grouped into high (≥ 50% total score) and low (< 50% total score).Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics at a p value < 0.05 for determining statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 335 respondents completed the study and the mean age ± S.D. was 37.19 ± 9.19 years (range: 18-65 years). 47.5% of respondents were Christian while 60.0% of the respondents were married. 15.5% had tertiary education, and more than two-thirds were from the Yoruba tribe. More than two-thirds (78.5%) of the participants stated that they practiced breast self-examination, while 58.5% reported to have been taught how to perform BSE. 75.8% agreed that the use of injectable contraception or oral pills can result in BC, while 75.8% also agreed that women of reproductive age are at risk of BC. Less than 50% mentioned that they were uncomfortable taking off clothes in front of health professionals during the examination. The perceived risk of BC showed that 221 (65.97%), and 114 (34.03%) of respondents had high, and low levels of perceived risk of BC, respectively. However, 184 (54.93%) and 151 (45.07%) of the respondents had good and poor knowledge. The majority (139, 41.49%) of the respondents had poor BSE practice. Age (p = 0.023), educational qualifications (p < 0.001), average income per month (p < 0.001) and ethnicity (p = < 0.001) were statistically associated with knowledge of breast self-examination while religion (p = 0.02), marital status (p = 0.01), educational qualification (p = 0.001) and distance from facility (p = 0.009) were statistically associated with perceived risk of BC. Participants' educational qualification (p = 0.006) and ethnicity (p = 0.013) were statistically associated with practice of BSE. Good knowledge was also identified as a significant predictor of good practice of participants among the women (95%CI: 4.574 (2.841-7.365), p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study identified high level of perception, good knowledge and good practice of BSE among majority of the market women in Owo Town. Interventions and extensive health education on BSE with the aim of creating positive awareness and understanding of BSE among the population should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mujidat Awogbayila
- Department of Nursing Services, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Olayinka Onasoga
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Umar Jibril
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Funmilayo Oluwafemi
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Edidiong Orok
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Public Health, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
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Hussein D, Gashaw K, Geleta TA, Girma D, Geleta LA, Oyato BT. Exploring enablers and barriers to breast self-examination among women in the North Shewa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia: a qualitative study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17455. [PMID: 37838805 PMCID: PMC10576758 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44808-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide and the second most common cancer overall. Breast self-examination (BSE) is one of the cheapest methods used for the early detection of BC in asymptomatic women. More than 90% of cases of BC can be detected by women themselves. This reality stresses the importance of BSE as the key BC detection mechanism. However, in Ethiopia, most of the BE studies were not conducted among women in the general population. Therefore, this study aimed to explore enablers and barriers to breast self-examination among women in the North Shewa Zone, Oromia. A descriptive qualitative study design was conducted from August 1, 2022, to September 30, 2022. Five focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 46 women from one selected district in the North Shewa Zone, Oromia. A Purposive sampling technique was used to select participants for FGD. The audio-recorded data were transcribed verbatim to "Afan Oromo". Transcribed data were translated into English. The data were manually coded into themes and analyzed manually by using inductive thematic analysis. The findings of the study were discussed under five themes of enablers and three themes of barriers. The five themes of enablers were knowledge about BC, knowledge about BSE, experience of BSE practice, perceived susceptibility, and perceived benefit of BSE practice. The four themes of barriers were low knowledge of BSE practice, misconceptions about BSE practice, and fear of detecting BC. These findings suggest that targeted health education programs, collaboration between healthcare providers and local stakeholders, and the availability of support services can play a crucial role in overcoming barriers and encouraging BSE practice for early detection of breast abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dursa Hussein
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia.
| | - Ketema Gashaw
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia
| | - Tinsae Abeya Geleta
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia
| | - Derara Girma
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia
| | - Leta Adugna Geleta
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia
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Idrees S, Mayilvaganan S, Mishra S, Chand G, Mishra A, Agarwal G. What makes women receptive to breast self-examination, animation, or simulation? - a comparative study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:4228-4233. [PMID: 37663692 PMCID: PMC10473313 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000000917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Breast self-examination (BSE) plays an important role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer in India owing to the stigma attached to cancer. The authors compared the efficacies of animation video versus simulation techniques in BSE. Methods Women with no previous history of conditions affecting the breasts were included in this prospective observational study and divided into an animation or simulation arm. The latter was further divided into three subgroups as per the simulation models used : the German (Delta Healthcare), British (Health Edco), and Indian (low-cost, validated) models used for teaching BSE. The hybrid animation video had a 9 min runtime with a lecture on BSE and a virtual character performing BSE. In both the arms, participants filled in a validated modified patient satisfaction questionnaire. Results A total of 500 women participated. The mean age of the participants in the animation video arm was 20.21±3.88 years and 19.34±2.27, 22.94±9.6, and 18.97±1.31(20.41±5.99) years in the Indian, German, and British simulation models arm, respectively. The age difference between the two arms was statistically significant (P<0.05). Both animation video and simulation models were found to be useful by the participants. The participants' response to animation video being a better organized tool for learning BSE was statistically significant (90.48±7.98 vs. 84.02±15.09 P≤0.001) when compared to simulation models. The younger women (≤20 years) found these tools significantly more useful than those aged >20 years. Conclusions All models had good efficiency and utility as learning tools for BSE. However, large studies in BSE set up with combination models are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shagun Mishra
- Department of Radiotherapy Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rae Bareilly Road, Lucknow, India
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B K M, Kaphle HP. Breast self-examination: Knowledge, practice and associated factors among 20 to 49 years aged women in Butwal sub-metropolitan, Rupandehi, Nepal. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286676. [PMID: 37267248 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world and also among Nepalese women. Breast self-examination is an important, cheap, and easy method for early diagnosis of breast cancer which can be cured in the majority of cases if diagnosed in the early stages. In developing countries like Nepal where the awareness regarding breast cancer and breast self-examination is poor, breast cancers are diagnosed at late stages resulting in a poor prognosis of the disease. The study assessed knowledge, practice, and factors associated with breast self-examination. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 262 women in the Butwal sub-metropolitan adopting multi-stage sampling. A pre-tested structured interview schedule and an observation checklist were used to collect the data. Data was entered in EPI-data and necessary univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were done in SPSS. RESULTS The study found that more than half of the participants (55.3%) had poor knowledge of BSE. Only one-fourth (27.1%) of them were practicing BSE and among them, most of them (93.0%) had poor practice. The factors such as ethnicity from Brahmin/Chhetri [AOR = 2.099, 95% CI (1.106-3.981)], use of contraceptive devices [AOR = 9.487, 95% CI (2.166-41.558)], personal history of breast lump [AOR = 12.502, 95% CI (1.639-95.387)], family history of breast cancer [AOR = 5.729, 95% CI (1.337-97.512)], and knowledge of BSE [AOR = 4.407, 95% CI = 2.160-34.650)] were significant determinants of BSE practice among 20-49 years women. CONCLUSION The study concluded that most of the women had poor knowledge and practice of breast self-examination. The study also indicated the influence of ethnicity, contraceptives, personal and family history of cancer/early warning signs, and knowledge for practicing breast self-examination. There is an immediate need to increase the knowledge and practice of breast self-examination to prevent and detect breast cancer in its early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha B K
- School of Health and Allied Sciences, Pokhara University, Pokhara, Nepal
| | - Hari Prasad Kaphle
- School of Health and Allied Sciences, Pokhara University, Pokhara, Nepal
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Abo Al-Shiekh SS, Alajerami YS, Abushab KM, Najim AA, AlWaheidi S, Davies EA. Factors affecting delay in the presentation of breast cancer symptoms among women in Gaza, occupied Palestinian territory: a cross-sectional survey. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061847. [PMID: 36270752 PMCID: PMC9594579 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify factors related to women's delay in presenting with breast cancer symptoms to improve diagnosis in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt). DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Two government cancer hospitals. PARTICIPANTS A consecutive sample of 130 Palestinian women living in Gaza with newly diagnosed breast cancer were approached in the waiting rooms of cancer hospitals in Gaza between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017. 120 women took part and returned the completed questionnaire. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical information about breast cancer was collected from hospital cancer records. An interval of 3 months or more between women's self-discovery of symptoms and their first presentation to a medical provider was considered as a delay. RESULTS 94% (122/130) of women attending cancer hospitals in Gaza agreed to take part in the study. Their mean age was 51 years (range: 23-72), 33.6% (31/122) had a family history of breast cancer and 74.5% (41/55) of those whose cancer stage was known had been diagnosed at stage III or IV. Around one-half (62/122) said they had not recognised the seriousness of their breast changes but only 20% (24/122) of women delayed seeking healthcare by 3 months and more. The two only factors associated to late presentation were that the woman considered their symptoms not serious (p<0.001) and lack of pain (p=0.012). Lower socioeconomic status, older age, lower education and negative family history of breast cancer were not statistically associated with women's delay. CONCLUSIONS Women's awareness about the seriousness of breast changes and the critical importance of seeking prompt diagnosis needs to be improved using context-relevant and evidence-based awareness campaigns. This should be accompanied with training of female nurses on promoting early detection and improvement in diagnostic facilities to ensure timely diagnosis of cancer in the oPt.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khaled M Abushab
- Department of Medical Imaging, Al-Azhar University, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ahmed A Najim
- Nursing Department, Al-Azhar University, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Elizabeth A Davies
- Health and Social Care Research, King's College London, London, UK
- Knowledge and Intelligence, Public Health England, London, UK
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Shawahna R, Awawdeh H. Pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and barriers toward breast cancer health promotion: a cross-sectional study in the Palestinian territories. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:429. [PMID: 33952277 PMCID: PMC8101222 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06458-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among all cancers, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer and the leading cause of mortality among women in developing countries including Palestine. Community pharmacists are trusted and easily accessible healthcare providers who could be engaged in breast cancer health promotion. This study was conducted with the aim of exploring knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and barriers toward breast cancer health promotion among community pharmacists in the Palestinian territories. METHODS This study was conducted in a cross-sectional design using a questionnaire among community pharmacists. Knowledge of community pharmacists of breast cancer was tested using a 26-item knowledge test. Attitudes and beliefs of the community pharmacists with regard to breast cancer promotion were explored using 14 items. Barrier to breast cancer health promotion were explored using 9 items. RESULTS Data were collected from 200 community pharmacists. The median knowledge score was 69.2 % with and IQR of 15.2 %. Of the community pharmacists, 67.5 % scored 50 % and above in the knowledge test. Multivariate logistic regression showed that community pharmacists who were female in gender were more likely to score 50 % and above in the knowledge test compared to the community pharmacists who were male in gender (OR = 4.73, 95 % CI of 2.26-9.89). The community pharmacists had positive attitudes toward breast cancer health promotion. There was a significant moderate positive correlation between knowledge and attitudes scores (Spearman's rho = 0.37, p-value < 0.001). Lack of reimbursement, lack of enough personnel, lack of time, and fear of offending the patients were the main barriers to breast cancer health promotion (percentage of agreement > 60.0 %). CONCLUSIONS This study shed light on the role of community pharmacists in breast cancer health promotion. Pharmacists had good knowledge of breast cancer and positive attitudes toward promoting the health of patients with breast cancer. Further studies are still needed to determine how to integrate community pharmacists in the team of healthcare providers caring for patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi Shawahna
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An- Najah National University, P.O. Box 7, New Campus, Building: 19, Office: 1340, Nablus, Palestine.
- An-Najah BioSciences Unit, Centre for Poisons Control, Chemical and Biological Analyses, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.
| | - Hiba Awawdeh
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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Abo Al-Shiekh SS, Ibrahim MA, Alajerami YS. Breast Cancer Knowledge and Practice of Breast Self-Examination among Female University Students, Gaza. ScientificWorldJournal 2021; 2021:6640324. [PMID: 34007246 PMCID: PMC8100409 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6640324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the highest public detected cancer among female population in the majority of countries worldwide. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a useful screening tool to empower women and raise awareness about their breast tissues and help detect any breast abnormalities when they occur. This study aimed to assess the level of female university students' knowledge and practice of BSE. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge about breast cancer and related items, and an observation checklist was used to test practicing BSE using a breast simulator. Eighty-six students participated in the study, 58.1% studying nursing and 41.9% studying clinical nutrition in the third (40.7%) or the fourth level (59.3%). Of them, 24.4% had previous family history of breast cancer. The majority of the students (80.2%) had previous information about breast cancer acquired from different sources, university studies (57%), the Internet (45%), and social media (41%). Findings showed good scores (≥70%) regarding signs and symptoms and risk factors of breast cancer; however, low knowledge scores (<70%) were detected regarding general knowledge about breast cancer disease, methods of early detection and management, and applying steps of practicing BSE. Roughly all the students (96.5%) have heard about BSE, and 69.8% knew the time to do BSE; however, only 31.4% practice it regularly. Three barriers to practice were dominant among students who do not have a breast problem (39.7%), do not know how to do it (37.9%), and being busy 31%. On the other hand, breast cancer early detection purpose and the presence of family history of breast cancer were considered facilitators to regular practice BSE. A statistically significant relationship existed between knowledge about the steps of applying the BSE and regular practicing. A training program should be implemented to increase the level of awareness about BC and practicing BSE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Awadelkarim Ibrahim
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, ALBaha University, KSA, Al Bahah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser S. Alajerami
- Department of Medical Imaging, Al-Azhar University, Gaza, State of Palestine
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Tsitsi T, Christou A, Christodoulou-Fella M, Beccati S, Boccaletti L, Palermo A, Alves J, Teixeira A, Charalambous A. A Qualitative Focus Group Study for the Exploration of Knowledge and Attitudes of Informal Caregivers Toward Breast Cancer: Perceptions of Informal Caregivers and Healthcare Professionals in Three European Countries. INQUIRY: THE JOURNAL OF HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION, AND FINANCING 2021; 58:469580211060254. [PMID: 34911397 PMCID: PMC8695740 DOI: 10.1177/00469580211060254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) early screening and detection is a main component for the
outcome of the treatment and overall survival. Informal caregivers (ICGs) are
less likely to initiate early BC screening methods and utilize health services.
The purpose of this study was to explore ICGs’ knowledge and perceptions,
including educational and training opportunities or barriers, in promoting early
detection practices for BC, as well as healthcare professionals’ (HCP)
respective perceptions concerning ICGs in order to identify the need of selected
health literacy interventions. A qualitative focus group study was implemented
in 3 European countries, using a purposive sampling technique. In total, 26 ICGs
and 18 HCPs were involved. The themes that emerged from the focus groups
interviews included knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs concerning
BC; motivational factors and barriers that influence early screening practices
and personal involvement. Motivators and barriers concerning BC screening
adherence were linked to knowledge, beliefs and perceptions. Health promotion
strategies and user-friendly tools should be developed, targeting on the
implementation of BC early detection practices among informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theologia Tsitsi
- School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Andri Christou
- School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andreas Charalambous
- School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Allohaibi A, Yousef F, Joudah G, Rajab H, Sindi I, Albaik M. Knowledge of Breast Cancer and the Practice of Breast Self-Examination in Saudi Women: An Online Survey. ASIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH AND HEALTH CARE 2020. [DOI: 10.18311/ajprhc/2021/26763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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