Knowledge and Associated Risk Factors of Breast Cancer among Females in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Many studies have identified delayed presentation, late-stage diagnosis, and inadequate treatment as the major challenges associated with poor breast cancer outcome. The number of deaths due to breast cancer is projected to increase in Nigeria. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate knowledge and associated risk factors of breast cancer among females in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria using standard methods with three hundred participants. Of the 300 participants, the majority (51.7%) have never undergone breast cancer screening like a self-breast examination, mammography, or clinical breast examination. This is a serious public health concern. The most perceived barrier to seeking timely screening for breast cancer was the lack of awareness (28%), followed by financial limitations (24.1%), fear of stigma (17.6%), lack of healthcare facilities (17.1%), and cultural beliefs (13.2%). There is a poor knowledge of breast cancer among the study participants. We advocated for breast cancer awareness campaigns and accessible screening services.