Perception Of Secondary-School Female Students on Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination in Merowe, Sudan

Abstract

Nowadays, breast cancer is one of the most frequently detected cancers and is the major cause of death among women worldwide. Awareness of women's breasts encourages them to become familiar with what is normal or helps to alert them to any abnormal changes in the breasts and provokes them to seek medical advice immediately. A descriptive community-based survey study was conducted in Merowe city in north Sudan. To assess cancer and breast self-examination perception  Among Females students in Merowe secondary school, from 2021 to 2022. The data was collected using an interview questionnaire. The sample size consisted of 75 females aged 13 and above and from all nationalities. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programs. The study concluded that the females' knowledge was poor regarding breast self-examination Results of the survey revealed(29.3%0) of students see that lumps and masses in the breast as signs and symptoms of breast cancer, the most student saw the medical staff as the source of knowledge about breast self-examination, (41.3%) from student agreed that can perform breast self-examination in all stage of age. (20%) of them responded with correct answers regarding the best time for breast self-examination .only (12%) of them practice breast self-examination. The study recommended that community-based awareness programs are needed so that all females can know and practice breast self-examination, which in turn helps to alert them to any abnormal changes in the breasts and provoke them to seek medical advice immediately. Comprehensive Health education programs should be targeted especially in audiovisual (Television, and Radio) obtained because it is an available methodfor respondents.