Authors : Aina I; Adeyinka A.O; Aina A.S; Obande O.

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : http://tinyurl.com/524j35t4

Scribd : http://tinyurl.com/28ztfepj

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10609627

Abstract : Breast cancer is an important global health concern that has a high morbidity and mortality. It is the leading cancer in women worldwide, with increasing incidence in the developing world. Early detection of this condition is vital in ensuring a cure. One of the best ways of ensuring early detection of breast carcinoma in women is through awareness and performance of self- breast examination (SBE). This prospective study aimed to assessthe level of awareness and the practice of self- breast examination for breast cancer detection among female health workers in Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State.A hundred female health workers in the reproductive age group were recruited into the study. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain the data. The mean age of the participants was 31.30 ± 10.26yrs, 96% of the participantswere aware of self-breast examination as a screening method for breast cancer.However, 41%practice it monthly as it should be done. A lesser proportion of the respondentswho are 40 years and above 7.7% have ever had mammogramsdone.The low practice rate of breast cancer screening methodsamong female health practitioners in this hospital requires the need for training on the importance and practice of self- breast examination among all the cadres of female health workers to be a better advocate of SBE for the general populace in a developing and low-income country like ours.

Keywords : Self-breast examination, Breast cancer, Female health workers, Screening.