Knowledge and Awareness of Breast and Cervical Cancer among women aged 36 to 55

Abstract

Breast cancer is globally the most common cancer type seen in women and also the one that causes most deaths. Globally, cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer and third most common type of cancer after breast and lung cancers among women. The aim and objective of the study was to conduct a survey among the general populations of female and to know the level of knowledge and awareness of Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer among women aged 36 to 55. This study is done by collecting data, containing different questions and then those data was analyzed by using Microsoft excel. In my study 350 women were analyzed regarding the knowledge and awareness of Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer. Women were mostly aged between 41-45 years (32.28%). Among the 350 women, 86% heard about Breast Cancer, 58% out of 86% were aware of Breast Cancer risk factors, and a major group, 68.13%, identified smoking as the risk factor. 64% out of 86% participant were aware of Breast cancer signs and symptoms. Breast lump/ hardening of breast was recognized as the major (90.63%) sign and symptom. 62.57% had knowledge about breast self examination. 66% of population had no knowledge about mammography. 72% heard about Cervical Cancer. From 72%, 45% were aware of Cervical Cancer risk factors and 67.72% knew family history as the major cause. 47% out of 72% were aware of Cervical Cancer signs and symptoms, and 68.07% recognized menstrual abnormality and abnormal vaginal discharge as the major sign and symptom. 43.14% of women did not know about PAP test. 47.71% participant mentioned surgery as the possible treatment of both the cancers, and 39.14% mentioned lack of awareness as a reason for unwillingness to undergo screening test. It is found that level of knowledge of Breast Cancer risk factors, symptoms and screening methods was high as compared to Cervical Cancer. So, a little more effort should be given in raising awareness against Cervical Cancer. It is also found that mostly illiterate or those who have not got proper education have lack of knowledge and awareness regarding both the cancers. Thus, more educational programs, conferences, awareness programmes, etc should be designed to provide comprehensive information and awareness on Breast and Cervical Cancer.