Breast Cancer Awareness, Knowledge and Beliefs among Libyan Women

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer of women. The high mortality in developing countries is associated with late detection, and lack of knowledge among women and adequate screening programmes. Objectives: The objectives of this study are assess the current level and determinants of knowledge and beliefs regarding (BC), risk factors and various screening methods among Libyan women. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study carried out between September and October 2016 among a sample of adult women in western Libya. Participants were asked to fill a validated questionnaire to investigate their knowledge about the risk factors as well as their awareness and screening behaviours of (BC). Data were collected from 1091 woman. Results: The results of the study showed the majority of women participated in the study were aware of BC early warning signs and symptoms with over 90% of the women were able to list at least one symptom of breast cancer correctly. The most frequent warning sign identified was breast lump (91.0 %), followed by discharge from the nipples (80.6%). Also, 565 (52.7%) of those surveyed were aware that increasing age was associated with a higher incidence of breast cancer and 747 (68.3%) of the respondents identified positive family history as a risk factor for breast cancer. Moreover, 62% of female participants know how to perform SBE, and only 59% ever performed BSE. The majority of women in the study (92%) would seek medical advice if they discovered a mass in the breast whereas, about half of those (59%) would consult a male doctor. Conclusions: Women participated in this study were fairly informed about BC risks and warning signs; the results appear to reflect growing awareness of women regarding BC screening methods. health education message should be presented and delivered in a culturally-sensitive manner and tailored to provide simple and clear information and avoid false beliefs and misconceptions about the disease, its screening methods and management options.