Breast cancer knowledge and screening practices among undergraduates in a Nigerian tertiary institution, Southwest Region

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most diagnosed female malignancy in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of breast cancer screening among female undergraduates in a tertiary institution in Southwest Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 350 female undergraduates of a public university in southwest Nigeria using a multi-stage sampling method involving simple random sampling. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Epi info 7 was used for data analysis, level of significance was set at 5% (p<0.05). Results: The majority, 316(90.3%) had poor knowledge of breast cancer and screening and 340(97.1%) had positive attitude towards screening. Only 185(52.9%) had done breast self-examination and 16(4.6%) had done clinical breast examination. The student’s year of study was significantly associated with knowledge of breast cancer (p = 0.002) Marital status (p=0.039) and attitude towards breast cancer screening (p<0.001) were significantly associated with breast self-examination. Students in their third year were 6 (2 – 16) times more likely to have good knowledge of breast cancer (Adjusted Odds Ratio 5.87, ConfidenceInterval 2.17 – 15.86). Conclusion: Overall knowledge and practice of breast cancer screening were poor, but students’ attitude towards screening was positive. Health education on breast cancer and screening is recommended. Keywords: Knowledge; practice; breast cancer; screening; young people; Nigeria.