Assessment of knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and practice of breast self-examination among students at CSJM university, Kanpur

Breast cancer is still one of the leading malignancies among women in the world and accounts for 19-34 % of all cancers in India. This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge of risk factors of breast cancer and the practice of BSE among students at CSJM University, Kanpur. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from 375 participants, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students, as well as faculty members. The study revealed a moderate awareness of breast cancer risk factors such as family history (62.7 %) and radiation exposure (50.4 %), while it was lower for lifestyle-related risks like smoking (44.3 %). Only 36.3 % of the participants practiced BSE monthly, and barriers included a lack of knowledge (51.2 %), forgetfulness (24 %), and fear (14.9 %). Online tutorials (51.5 %) and interactive workshops (41.9 %) emerged as preferred educational materials. The findings indicate wide knowledge gaps and practice gaps; hence, there is an urgent need for educational intervention and curricular reforms, along with increased awareness programs, in improving breast health literacy and related preventive behaviors.