Breast self examiniation among non-health professionals in Nigeria

Abstract

The Department of Surgery of Abia State University Teaching Hospital Aba, before implementing an extensive Breast Cancer Awareness Programe) in Abia State, did a preliminary survey using a questionnaire on breast self – examination among three hundred and fifty (350) non-health professionals, to ascertain whether they have heard and did practice breast self – examination. Respondents were teachers, civil servant, lawyers, bankers, traders, female undergraduates, retired public servants and business women. It was found out that only 202 (61.4%) have heard of breast self examination (BSE) which 124 (37.7) try to practice BSE, only 59 (17.9%) knew the proper method of BSE. It was also found that 194 (59%) were aware of the gravity of breast cancer in the community. These findings call for serious public health awareness for breast self examination and therefore the need to mount a breast cancer awareness program in Nigeria.

Nigerian Journal of Surgical Sciences Vol. 15(2) 2005: 74-77