Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge of Mammography and Breast Cancer Among Allied Health Care Professionals and BS Nursing Students in Peshawar

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, and early detection through screening methods such as mammography, clinical breast examination (CBE), and breast self-examination (BSE) plays a crucial role in reducing mortality and improving survival rates. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of mammography and breast cancer among female students of Allied Health Sciences and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), as well as to identify factors contributing to lack of awareness.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of four months using a convenience sampling technique. A total of 377 female students were included. Data were collected through a self-structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 22 and Microsoft Excel.

The results showed that 92.3% of participants were aware of mammography; however, only 5.0% had ever undergone the procedure. While 75.3% were aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and 70.8% knew its risk factors, only 32.1% practiced breast self-examination. Knowledge regarding screening mammography was moderate (54.9%), whereas awareness about the appropriate age for first mammography was low (32.4%). Additionally, 63.1% of participants believed that radiation exposure during mammography is harmful, indicating the presence of misconceptions. Awareness of clinical breast examination was also limited (47.7%).

In conclusion, although the participants demonstrated good overall awareness of breast cancer, gaps remain in practical application, screening knowledge, and misconceptions regarding mammography. Educational interventions, awareness campaigns, and practical training programs are recommended to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices among future healthcare professionals.