Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria

Received: 1 June 2024     Accepted: 19 June 2024     Published: 26 June 2024
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Abstract

This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination (BSE) among adult women in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Breast cancer, a leading neoplasm among women, presents a significant global health challenge due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 400 adult women, employing a structured questionnaire to collect data. The findings reveal a high level of awareness about breast cancer, with 98.5% of participants demonstrating good knowledge and 93.5% exhibiting positive attitudes toward BSE. However, only 77.5% of respondents practiced BSE regularly. The study underscores the importance of early detection facilitated by BSE, particularly in resource-limited settings, as 86.3% of participants identified increasing age as a risk factor, and 100% recognized lumps in the breast as a symptom. Despite this awareness, many women do not practice BSE consistently due to misconceptions and lack of motivation. The research highlights the necessity of enhancing public awareness and education on BSE through mass media and healthcare providers to improve early breast cancer detection and reduce mortality rates. It recommends that healthcare workers promote BSE during interactions with female clients and serve as role models by adopting preventive screening measures themselves. This approach could significantly impact breast cancer control and improve health outcomes among women in the community. The study concludes that while knowledge and attitudes toward BSE are generally positive, consistent practice remains a challenge that must be addressed through targeted awareness and education initiatives.

Published in Central African Journal of Public Health (Volume 10, Issue 3)
DOI 10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12
Page(s) 154-162
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Breast Cancer, Knowledge, Attitude, Adult Women

1. Introduction
Breast cancer, a malignant tumor originating from breast cells, is now the most common cancer among women due to advancements in screening programs . It remains a significant global health challenge without a known cure. Annually, about 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and over 685,000 dies from the disease . In Nigeria, breast cancer constitutes 23-28% of all cancer cases among women .
Early detection is critical despite advancements in treatment. Modern medical practices such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation have enhanced breast cancer manageability . However, early detection heavily relies on patient participation in breast self-examinations (BSE), routine screenings, mammography, and regular check-ups. Over 90% of breast cancer cases are detected by women themselves, underscoring the importance of BSE .
BSE, a simple, cost-free, non-invasive method, allows women to detect changes in their breast tissue early. Despite its benefits, many women perform BSE inconsistently or not at all, leading to late-stage diagnoses, particularly in African countries where breast cancer is often advanced at presentation .
The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been extensively applied to understand health behaviors, including breast cancer screening . HBM suggests that health-related behaviors are influenced by perceived threats and the value of actions to mitigate them. Thus, women who perceive themselves at risk and recognize the severity of breast cancer are more likely to engage in regular BSE .
Despite awareness campaigns promoting BSE, late-stage presentation of breast cancer is still common among Nigerian women. Effective health education requires health workers to possess proper knowledge and attitudes toward the promoted health behaviors . Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a crucial role in educating and motivating patients about breast cancer screening, and their knowledge significantly influences patient participation in these practices .
Globally, breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women, with significant geographical variations in incidence and mortality rates . Although the incidence is higher in developed regions, mortality rates are relatively lower due to better survival rates from early detection and effective treatments . In developing countries, however, the trend is reversed, with higher mortality rates due to late diagnoses and limited access to treatment .
Breast cancer accounts for 16% of all female cancers worldwide. Despite higher incidence rates in developed countries, 69% of breast cancer deaths occur in developing countries, driven by factors like increased life expectancy, urbanization, and lifestyle changes . As developing countries adopt more westernized lifestyles, they face rising breast cancer rates, reflecting a broader shift from infectious diseases to chronic non-communicable diseases .
Geographical variations in breast cancer incidence are influenced by risk factors, medical practices, treatment quality, and reporting completeness. Migrant studies indicate that the risk for breast cancer in new generations aligns more closely with their adopted countries, highlighting the impact of diet and lifestyle changes . Additionally, genetic differences contribute to variations in breast cancer types across populations, with certain genes playing significant roles .
2. Method
2.1. Study Design
This study is a descriptive cross-sectional survey designed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of adult women towards early breast cancer prevention in Idanre Local Government Area (LGA) of Ondo State, Nigeria. The cross-sectional design enables the collection of data from a sample of the population at a single point in time, providing a snapshot of the current state of awareness and attitudes regarding breast cancer prevention. This approach is suitable for identifying knowledge gaps and misconceptions, which can inform future educational interventions.
2.2. Sampling Technique
A multistage sampling technique was employed to select participants for this study. The sampling process was as follows:
1. First Stage: The list of wards in Idanre LGA was used as a sampling frame. From these, two settlements were chosen using simple random sampling (balloting method). This ensured that each ward had an equal chance of being included in the study.
2. Second Stage: Within the selected settlements, stratified random sampling was applied. The population was divided into strata based on their respective wards. Proportional allocation was then used to ensure that the sample size reflected the distribution of the population across these wards. This method improves the representativeness of the sample and ensures that the findings can be generalized to the entire LGA.
2.3. Data Collection
Data was collected using a structured questionnaire, which was administered through face-to-face interviews by trained interviewers. The questionnaire was designed to capture information on:
1. Demographic characteristics of the respondents.
2. Knowledge of breast cancer and its risk factors.
3. Attitudes towards breast cancer screening methods such as Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Clinical Breast Examination (CBE), and mammography.
4. Barriers to breast cancer screening and early detection.
The interviewers received training to standardize the administration of the questionnaire and to ensure consistency and accuracy in data collection. Each interview was conducted in a private setting to maintain confidentiality and encourage honest responses.
2.4. Ethical Considerations
Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the appropriate ethics review board in Ondo State. The following ethical considerations were observed:
1. Informed Consent: Prior to data collection, all participants were informed about the purpose of the study, procedures involved, potential risks, and benefits. Written informed consent was obtained from each participant. Participation was entirely voluntary, and participants were assured that they could withdraw from the study at any point without any consequences.
2. Confidentiality: Measures were taken to ensure the confidentiality of participants' responses. Data were anonymized by assigning unique identification numbers to each questionnaire, and personal identifiers were not collected. The data were stored securely and only accessible to the research team.
3. Non-maleficence: The study was designed to avoid any harm to the participants. The questions were framed sensitively to avoid distress, and support was offered to participants who might need further information or counseling regarding breast cancer.
4. Beneficence: The potential benefits of the study include providing valuable insights into the knowledge and attitudes of women regarding breast cancer prevention. This information can be used to develop targeted educational programs aimed at improving breast cancer awareness and promoting early detection practices.
3. Result
3.1. Respondents Profile
Table 1 shows the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents. The table revealed that 116 (29%) were less than 30 years, 107 (26.8%) were between the ages of 30 and 40 years, 110 (27.5%) were between 41 and 50 years while 67 (16.8) were 50 years. Most of the respondents 355 (88.8%) were married while 45 (11.3%) were single. 283 (70.8%) had tertiary education while 117 (29.3%) had secondary education. With respect to number of children, 231 (57.8%) had 3-4 children, 85 (21.3%) had 1-2 children, 62 (15.5%) had more than 4 children while 22 (5.5%) had no child. Majority, 299 (74.8%) are Christians, 99 (24.8%) are muslims while 2 (0.5%) practice traditional religion. Most of the respondents are yorubas as expected.
Table 1. Socio-demographic characteristics of the Respondents.

Variables

Frequency (n=400)

Percentage (%)

Age

<30

116

29

30-40

107

26.8

41-50

110

27.5

>50

67

16.8

Ethnicity

Yoruba

389

97.3

Igbo

9

2.3

Others

2

0.5

Marital Status

Single

45

11.3

Married

355

88.8

Level of education

Secondary

117

29.3

Tertiary

283

70.8

No of children

0

22

5.5

1-2

85

21.3

3-4

231

57.8

>4

62

15.5

Religion

Christianity

299

74.8

Islam

99

24.8

Traditional

2

0.5

3.2. Risk Factors for Developing Breast Cancer
Table 2 shows knowledge on the potential risk factors for developing breast cancer. 345 (86.3%) agree with Increasing age, 395 (98.8%) agree with Positive family history, 397 (99.3%) agree with High fat diet, 390 (97.5%) agree with smoking, 390 (97.5%) agree with Race/ethnicity, 138 (34.5%) agree with Working class women, 201 (50.3%) agree with Alcohol consumption, 178 (44.5%) agree with First child at late age while 287 (71.8%) agree that stress causes breast cancer.
Table 2. Knowledge on the potential risk factors for developing breast cancer.

Variables

Yes

No

Increasing age

345 (86.3%)

55 (55%)

Positive family history

395 (98.8%)

5 (1.3%)

High fat diet

397 (99.3%)

3 (0.8%)

Smoking

390 (97.5%)

10 (2.5%)

Race/ethnicity

390 (97.5%)

10 (2.5%)

Working class women

138 (34.5%)

262 (65.5%)

Alcohol consumption

201 (50.3%)

199 (49.8%)

First child at late age

178 (44.5%)

222 (55.5%)

Early onset of menarche

120 (30%)

280 (70%)

Late menopause

184 (46%)

216 (54%)

Stress

287 (71.8%)

113 (28.3%)

Larger breast

72 (18%)

328 (82%)

3.3. Breast Cancer Sign and Symptoms
Table 3 shows the knowledge on the signs and symptoms of Breast cancer. All the participants agree that lump in the breast is a symptom of Breast cancer, 397 (99.3%) agree that discharge from the beast is a sign of breast cancer, 399 (99.8%) agree that pain or soreness in the breast is a sign of breast cancer, 381 (95.2%) agree that Change in the size of the breast is a sign of breast cancer, 383 (95.7%) agree that Discoloration /dimpling of the breast, 395 (98.7%) agree with ulceration of the breast, 398 (99.5%) agree with weight loss, 387 (96.7%) agree with changes in the shape of the breast, 355 (88.8%) agree with Inversion/pulling in of nipple while 371 (92.8%) agree with Swelling or enlargement of the breast. Also, 340 (85%) agree with lump under armpit and 319 (79.7%) agree with Scaling/dry skin in nipple region.
Table 3. Knowledge on the signs and symptoms of Breast cancer.

Variables

Yes

No

Lump in the breast

400 (100%)

0 (0)

Discharge from the beast

397 (99.3%)

3 (0.8%)

Pain or soreness in the breast

399 (99.8%)

1 (0.3%)

Change in the size of the breast

381 (95.2%)

9 (2.3%)

Discoloration /dimpling of the breast

383 (95.7%)

7 (1.8%)

Ulceration of the breast

395 (98.7%)

5 (1.3%)

Weight loss

398 (99.5%)

2 (0.5%)

Changes in the shape of the breast

387 (96.7%)

13 (3.3%)

Inversion/pulling in of nipple

355 (88.8%)

45 (11.3%)

Swelling or enlargement of the breast

371 (92.8%)

29 (7.2%)

Lump under armpit

340 (85%)

60 (15%)

Scaling/dry skin in nipple region

319 (79.7%)

81 (20.3%)

3.4. Breast Self-Examination
Table 4 shows the attitude on BSE. 356 (89%) will be scared if they develop breast cancer, 327 (81.8%) will consult to a doctor if they develop breast cancer, 388 (97%) will not use traditional medicine if they develop breast cancer, 309 (77.3%) will not go to prayer house if they develop breast cancer, 280 (70%) will agree to perform Mastectomy if they develop breast cancer, 249 (62.3%) believe that breast cancer occur more commonly in old women and 303 (75.7%) think breast cancer is a curable disease.
Table 4. Attitude on Breast self-examination.

Variables

Yes

No

I will be scared if I develop breast cancer

356 (89%)

44 (11%)

I will consult to a doctor if I develop breast cancer

327 (81.8%)

73 (18.2%)

I will use traditional medicine if I develop breast cancer

12 (3%)

388 (97%)

I will go to prayer house if I develop breast cancer

91 (22.8%)

309 (77.3%)

I will agree to perform Mastectomy if I develop breast cancer

280 (70%)

120 (30%)

Will you allow a male doctor to examine your breast?

211 (52.8%)

189 (47.2%)

Do you believe that breast cancer occur more commonly in old women?

249 (62.3%)

151 (37.7%)

Do you think breast cancer is a curable disease?

303 (75.7%)

97 (24.3%)

3.5. Breast Self-Examination Practice
Table 5 shows the practice of Breast self-examination. 310 (77.5%) of the respondents practice SBE while 90 (22.5%) do not. Out of the participants that practice SBE, majority, 143 (37%) do it once a month while 65 (16.3%) out of the participants who don’t practice SBE regularly don’t think they should.
Table 5. Practice of Breast self-examination.

Variables

Frequency

Percetage

Do you practice SBE (Self Breast Examination)?

Yes

310

77.5

No

90

22.5

If Yes, how often?

Once a month

143

37

Once in 3 months

78

19.5

More than once in a quarter of a year

61

15.3

Not very often

28

7

If you don’t practice SBE regularly, what are the reasons?

I don’t have breast problem

25

6.3

I don’t think I should

65

16.3

3.6. Knowledge Score
Table 6. Knowledge Score.

Knowledge Score

Frequency (n=400)

Percentage (%)

Good

394

98.5

Poor

6

1.5

Table 6 shows the knowledge score of the participants. 394 (98.5%) had good knowledge about BSE and breast cancer while 6 (1.5%) had poor knowledge.
3.7. Attitude Score of the Participants
Table 7. Attitude Score.

Attitude Score

Frequency (n=400)

Percentage (%)

Positive

374

93.5

Negative

26

6.5

Table 7 shows the attitude score of the participants. 374 (93.5%) had positive attitude while 26 (6.5%) had negative attitude.
3.8. Factors That Affects Knowledge
Table 8 shows the factors associated with knowledge on BSE and breast cancer. Religion and ethnicity were significant with knowledge while age, marital status and level of education were insignificant.
Table 8. Factors that affects knowledge.

Variable

KNOWLEDGE SCORE

CHI-SQUARE

P-VALUE

GOOD

POOR

TOTAL

n (%)

n (%)

n (%)

Age

<30

114 (28.9)

2 (33.3)

116 (29)

2.551

0.466

30-40

104 (26.4)

3 (50)

107 (26.8)

41-50

109 (27.7)

1 (16.7)

110 (27.5)

>50

67 (17)

0 (0)

67 (16.8)

Marital status

Single

45 (11.4)

0 (0)

45 (11.2)

0.772

0.380

Married

349 (88.6)

6 (100)

355 (88.8)

Level of education

Secondary

117 (29.7)

0 (0)

117 (29.2)

2.518

0.113

Tertiary

277 (70.3)

6 (100)

283 (70.8)

Religion

Christianity

299 (75.9)

0 (0)

299 (74.8)

140.211

<0.001

Islam

95 (24.1)

4 (66.7)

99 (24.8)

Traditional

0 (0)

2 (33.3)

2 (0.5)

Ethnicity

Yoruba

385 (97.7)

4 (66.7)

389 (97.2)

132.056

<0.001

Igbo

9 (2.3)

0 (0)

9 (2.2)

Others

0 (0)

2 (33.3)

2 (0.5)

3.9. Factors Associated with the Attitude Score
Table 9 shows the factors associated with the attitude score. Age and level of education are significant with attitude while marital status, religion and ethnicity are insignificant.
Table 9. Factors that affects attitude.

VARIABLE

ATTITUDE SCORE

CHI-SQUARE

P-VALUE

POSITIVE

NEGATIVE

TOTAL

n (%)

n (%)

n (%)

Age

<30

115 (30.7)

1 (3.8)

116 (29)

68.445

<0.001

30-40

82 (21.9)

25 (96.2)

107 (26.8)

41-50

110 (29.4)

0 (0)

110 (27.5)

>50

67 (17.9)

0 (0)

67 (16.8)

Marital status

Single

45 (12)

0 (0)

45 (11.2)

3.525

0.06

Married

329 (88)

26 (100)

355 (88.8)

Level of education

Secondary

117 (31.3)

0 (0)

117 (29.2)

11.496

0.001

Tertiary

257 (68.7)

26 (100)

283 (70.8)

Religion

Christianity

275 (73.5)

24 (92.3)

299 (74.8)

4.555

0.103

Islam

97 (25.9)

2 (7.7)

99 (24.8)

Traditional

2 (0.5)

0 (0)

2 (0.5)

Ethnicity

Yoruba

363 (97.1)

26 (100)

389 (97.2)

0.786

0.675

Igbo

9 (2.4)

0 (0)

9 (2.2)

Others

2 (0.5)

0 (0)

2 (0.5)

4. Discussion
The study involved 400 adult women in Idanre LGA, Ondo State, assessing their knowledge and attitudes towards breast self-examination (BSE). The majority of respondents were under 30 years of age, aligning with similar studies that report younger populations tend to participate more in health-related surveys . The predominance of Yoruba participants reflects the indigenous demographics of the study area.
4.1. Knowledge of Breast Cancer and BSE
Knowledge about breast cancer is crucial for early detection and intervention. In this study, 98.5% of the respondents had good knowledge of breast cancer, similar to findings from a study in Malaysia where 97.1% of women had heard about breast cancer . However, despite high awareness, detailed knowledge about BSE techniques was lacking, with most respondents unaware of specific signs to look for during self-examination. This aligns with findings from a study in Ghana where although 89% of women had heard of BSE, only 34% knew how to perform it correctly .
4.2. Attitudes Towards BSE
Positive attitudes towards BSE were noted, with a majority expressing willingness to practice it. However, similar studies in Ethiopia showed that while 88.6% of women had a positive attitude towards BSE, only 24.8% practiced it regularly . This discrepancy highlights a common gap between awareness and practice. The findings suggest that while awareness campaigns are effective in informing women about BSE, additional efforts are needed to translate this knowledge into consistent practice.
4.3. Practice of BSE
In this study, 93.5% of the respondents reported practicing BSE, significantly higher than in other regions. For instance, a study in Iran found that only 17% of women practiced BSE regularly . This high practice rate in Idanre may be attributed to effective local health education programs. The importance of regular BSE practice is underscored by evidence showing it can lead to earlier detection of abnormalities, although its effectiveness in reducing mortality is still debated .
4.4. Barriers to Effective Breast Cancer Screening
Despite high knowledge and positive attitudes, barriers such as misconceptions, cultural beliefs, and lack of detailed knowledge on performing BSE were evident. For example, in a study conducted in Turkey, only 25% of women could correctly identify BSE techniques . Addressing these barriers through targeted education and training is essential. The role of healthcare providers, especially nurses, is crucial in educating women on proper BSE techniques and the importance of regular screening .
4.5. Factors Influencing Knowledge and Practice
Factors such as age, education, and socioeconomic status significantly influenced knowledge and practice of BSE. Younger women and those with higher education levels were more likely to practice BSE regularly, consistent with findings from a study in South Africa . Religion and ethnicity also played roles, with certain groups exhibiting higher awareness and practice rates due to targeted community health programs.
5. Conclusion
This study underscores the critical need for heightened awareness and education regarding breast cancer and breast self-examination (BSE) among women in Idanre LGA, Ondo State. Despite the high awareness of breast cancer, there remains a significant gap in practical knowledge and effective BSE practices. These findings align with recent studies that highlight similar trends in various regions, indicating a global issue. Enhanced education programs and targeted awareness campaigns are essential to improve early detection and reduce breast cancer mortality, particularly in areas with limited resources. Addressing cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors will be crucial in shaping effective health policies and interventions.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Cite This Article
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    Daniel, E. O., Olawale, O. O., Bello, A. M., Tomori, M. O., Michael, M., et al. (2024). Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria. Central African Journal of Public Health, 10(3), 154-162. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12

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    Daniel, E. O.; Olawale, O. O.; Bello, A. M.; Tomori, M. O.; Michael, M., et al. Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria. Cent. Afr. J. Public Health 2024, 10(3), 154-162. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12

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    AMA Style

    Daniel EO, Olawale OO, Bello AM, Tomori MO, Michael M, et al. Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria. Cent Afr J Public Health. 2024;10(3):154-162. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12

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  • @article{10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12,
      author = {Ebenezer Obi Daniel and Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale and Ahmed Mamuda Bello and Michael Olabode Tomori and Michael Michael and Israel Olukayode Popoola and Adebanke Adetutu Ogun and Aisha Oluwakemi Salami and Olukayode Oladeji Alewi and Taiwo Aderemi Popoola and Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo},
      title = {Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria
    },
      journal = {Central African Journal of Public Health},
      volume = {10},
      number = {3},
      pages = {154-162},
      doi = {10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.cajph.20241003.12},
      abstract = {This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination (BSE) among adult women in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Breast cancer, a leading neoplasm among women, presents a significant global health challenge due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 400 adult women, employing a structured questionnaire to collect data. The findings reveal a high level of awareness about breast cancer, with 98.5% of participants demonstrating good knowledge and 93.5% exhibiting positive attitudes toward BSE. However, only 77.5% of respondents practiced BSE regularly. The study underscores the importance of early detection facilitated by BSE, particularly in resource-limited settings, as 86.3% of participants identified increasing age as a risk factor, and 100% recognized lumps in the breast as a symptom. Despite this awareness, many women do not practice BSE consistently due to misconceptions and lack of motivation. The research highlights the necessity of enhancing public awareness and education on BSE through mass media and healthcare providers to improve early breast cancer detection and reduce mortality rates. It recommends that healthcare workers promote BSE during interactions with female clients and serve as role models by adopting preventive screening measures themselves. This approach could significantly impact breast cancer control and improve health outcomes among women in the community. The study concludes that while knowledge and attitudes toward BSE are generally positive, consistent practice remains a challenge that must be addressed through targeted awareness and education initiatives.
    },
     year = {2024}
    }
    

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  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Women Towards Early Prevention of Breast Cancer in a Local Government Area of a Southwestern State of Nigeria
    
    AU  - Ebenezer Obi Daniel
    AU  - Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale
    AU  - Ahmed Mamuda Bello
    AU  - Michael Olabode Tomori
    AU  - Michael Michael
    AU  - Israel Olukayode Popoola
    AU  - Adebanke Adetutu Ogun
    AU  - Aisha Oluwakemi Salami
    AU  - Olukayode Oladeji Alewi
    AU  - Taiwo Aderemi Popoola
    AU  - Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
    Y1  - 2024/06/26
    PY  - 2024
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12
    DO  - 10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12
    T2  - Central African Journal of Public Health
    JF  - Central African Journal of Public Health
    JO  - Central African Journal of Public Health
    SP  - 154
    EP  - 162
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    SN  - 2575-5781
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20241003.12
    AB  - This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination (BSE) among adult women in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Breast cancer, a leading neoplasm among women, presents a significant global health challenge due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 400 adult women, employing a structured questionnaire to collect data. The findings reveal a high level of awareness about breast cancer, with 98.5% of participants demonstrating good knowledge and 93.5% exhibiting positive attitudes toward BSE. However, only 77.5% of respondents practiced BSE regularly. The study underscores the importance of early detection facilitated by BSE, particularly in resource-limited settings, as 86.3% of participants identified increasing age as a risk factor, and 100% recognized lumps in the breast as a symptom. Despite this awareness, many women do not practice BSE consistently due to misconceptions and lack of motivation. The research highlights the necessity of enhancing public awareness and education on BSE through mass media and healthcare providers to improve early breast cancer detection and reduce mortality rates. It recommends that healthcare workers promote BSE during interactions with female clients and serve as role models by adopting preventive screening measures themselves. This approach could significantly impact breast cancer control and improve health outcomes among women in the community. The study concludes that while knowledge and attitudes toward BSE are generally positive, consistent practice remains a challenge that must be addressed through targeted awareness and education initiatives.
    
    VL  - 10
    IS  - 3
    ER  - 

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    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Method
    3. 3. Result
    4. 4. Discussion
    5. 5. Conclusion
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