Breast self-examination through health education from community pharmacy

Abstract

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most prevalent neoplasm among women and one of the leading causes of death in developed countries. There are screening programs aimed at reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a primary method which involves examining their breasts and armpits to detect changes, facilitating an early detection of this disease.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted to assess the effect of health education on BSE among adult women through pharmaceutical intervention.

Results

Health education significantly reduced perceived barriers (p < 0.001), with the most notable improvement in self-efficacy dimension (4.94 ± 3.17 to 8.11 ± 2.64, p < 0.001) after the intervention. Women performing BSE increased significantly from 59.7% to 95.5% (p < 0.001). Quality of life improved by more than 6 points on a 100-point scale (p = 0.001). Women under 40 were more confident in performing BSE correctly (OR = 2.284, 95%CI = 1.364 - 3.823, p < 0.001), better understood the procedure (OR = 2.741, 95%CI = 1.544 - 4.866, p < 0.001), knew better the proper body positions (OR = 1.787, 95%CI = 1.236 - 2.584, p < 0.001) and were more aware of the dates for BSE (OR = 1.399, 95%CI = 1.132 - 1.729, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The lack of knowledge among women about this practice underscores the need to implement and promote more health programs that encourage learning and education about one's own body.