Knowledge of women concerning breast cancer prevention in selected socio-demographic conditions
Journal Title: Medycyna Ogólna i Nauki o Zdrowiu - Year 2016, Vol 22, Issue 1
Abstract
[b]Introduction. [/b]Breast cancer is one of the most common, among women, oncological diseases and constitutes a serious health and social problem in Poland. Knowledge of methods concerning its early detection, risk factors and prevention methods are key issues in the fight against breast cancer in women. [b]Aim.[/b] Evaluation of the level of knowledge regarding risk factors and prevention of breast cancer in women according to selected socio-demographic characteristics: age, education, nature of work, family history of breast cancer. [b]Material and methods.[/b] The study was conducted in March and April 2014. The material included a group of 144 women. The method of a diagnostic survey was use. The research tools used in the study were a questionnaire consisting of a test of knowledge concerning risk factors and prevention of breast cancer, and demographics questions. [b]Results. [/b]The risk factors for breast cancer most frequently mentioned by women were: genetic burden (88.9%; n = 128), history of breast cancer in the family (66%; n = 95) and age (54.5%; n = 78), long-term use of oral contraceptives (49.3%, n = 71), and a history of endometrial cancer or ovarian cancer (45.1%; n = 65). The majority of respondents were not aware (65%; n = 93) which nutrients may increase the risk of breast cancer. However, up to 64.6% (n = 93) of respondents correctly believed that some foods could increase the risk of illness. Nearly all respondents (93.1%; n = 134) knew that walking, swimming and jogging are forms of physical activity which are the most recommended for leading a healthy lifestyle. The vast majority of respondents (82.6%; n = 120) understood the need for performing breast self-examination, which should commence at 20 years of age, with a frequency of once a month (72.2%; n = 104) within 2–3 days after menstruation stops (62.5; n = 90). [b]Conclusions.[/b] More than a half of the surveyed women presented sufficient knowledge about breast cancer and its prevention. Furthermore, almost 39% of respondents showed an insufficient degree of knowledge, and less than 11% of the respondents presented a good knowledge on the topic. None of the surveyed presented a very good level of knowledge regarding breast cancer and its prevention. Moreover, women with higher levels of education (p <0.05) and performing mental work (p <0.001) exhibited a statistically significant higher level of knowledge concerning risk factors and prevention of breast cancer.[b]Key words:[/b] breast cancer, women, knowledge, risk factors, prevention
Authors and Affiliations
Barbara Ślusarska, Grzegorz Nowicki, Ewa Łachowska, Honorata Piasecka, Anna Marciniak
Keywords
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