The role of men in early detection of their spouses' breast lump(s)/cancer

Abstract

Husbands influence their wives' health behavior. Yet, their role in helping to detect their spouses' breast lumps is hardly considered. We aim to determine whether men can be of help in the early detection of lumps in their spouses' breast. 230 questionnaires were administered to married men. The responses were accepted as “yes” or “no. 217 men (94.35%) responded. 195 (89.86%) were aware of breast cancer. 212 ( 97.7%) were either Christians or Muslims. 64. (29.54%) had tertiary education. 192 ( 88.4%) (p <0.0001) signified willingness to examine their wives' breasts and a similar percentage supported breast self-examination (BSE) (p <0.0001). 193( 89%) of respondents supported clinical breast examination (CBE) (p <0.0001).We concluded married men are aware of breast cancer and BSE as practiced by their spouses. They welcome the idea of examining their wife's breast to detect lump(s). We suggest their inclusion in the bid for the early detection of their spouses' breast lump(s)

Keywords: female breast cancer, men's role, early detection.