Health Education in Preventing Breast Cancer among Rural Women of Pakistan: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Breast Carcinoma (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among females of Pakistan. Pakistan is a low-middle-income country and breast self-examination (BSE) is an inexpensive and feasible method for early detection of any changes in breast tissue. Our study aimed to empower the rural women to be self-aware and self-detect initial stage of possible breast cancer and enable them to seeking healthcare on time. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study with women given health education about breast self-examination in rural settings of Islamabad, Pakistan. The pre and post intervention difference in knowledge and practices were tested through paired t-test. Results: During the pre-test, the knowledge (16.4%) and practice (16.7%) of BSE in women was low. Following intervention during the post-test, the knowledge of women about BSE increased to 99.4%, (t=21.585, p=0.000) and 56.7%, (t=11.613, p=0.000) of them practiced BSE in the previous month. Conclusion: In a country with high burden of breast cancer, women residing in rural areas and under low income quintile, breast self-examination can prove an effective strategy in addressing high prevalence of breast cancer among Pakistani females.