Breast Cancer Awareness and Knowledge Among Undergraduate Students of the University of Home Economics, Lahore, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is an important public health issue and one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the world in women. It is crucial to know its risk factors, warning signs and early detection signs to promote early healthcare-seeking behaviour. Despite the availability of the health information, women, even University students have some gaps and misconceptions regarding breast cancer in Pakistan.

Objective: To determine level of awareness and knowledge about breast cancer amongst female undergraduate students of the University of Home Economics, Lahore, Pakistan and investigate the sources, attitudes, related practices, perceived barriers and link between the academic years and the knowledge.

Methods: The study was designed as quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study in context of female undergraduate students of University of Home Economics, Lahore. A sample size of 300 students was proposed and convenience sampling method was applied for the recruitment of the participants. The purpose of the questionnaire, which was structured, self-administered and assessed, was to gather data on the sociodemographic characteristics, general awareness, sources of information, knowledge on breast cancer risk factors, warning signs, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers. Data analysis was done by SPSS 26.0. The frequencies of the participants' answers were summarised using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test was suggested to test associations between academic year and knowledge categories. A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Results showed many participants had a general awareness of breast cancer; however, differences existed in the level of knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, warning signs, and associated health practices. There were some important potential sources of breast cancer information identified, such as social media and online platforms. Potential barriers were also identified and included a lack of information, embarrassment, fear and access to information.

Conclusion: Breast cancer awareness, among the undergraduate students, must go beyond recognising breast cancer to correct knowledge of known risk factors, warning signs, and recommended health care-seeking behaviours. Practical education programmes at the University, experts' awareness raising, and credible digital health information can be effective in addressing gaps in knowledge and encouraging health-informed choices and decisions among young women.