Status of Breast Self-Examination among Health Professionals of Abia State University Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Breast self-examination (BSE) is recommended for breast cancer screening but most Nigerian women do not perform BSE regularly. Breast cancer, a significant cause of mortality, can often be tackled effectively if detected in an early stage. This may be achieved by mammography, physical examination by skilled practitioners or through breast self-examination. In this preliminary study, we present the responses received on breast self-examination among health professionals at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State. One hundred questionnaires were distributed to final year female medical students, house officers (interns), pharmacists and nurses. Out of the 100 distributed, respondents were 94 (94%). Among the 94 it was found out that 79 (84) practice Breast self-examination, but the number that examine their breast monthly was only 45 (47.9%). With this low level of monthly breast self-examination, there is the need to create the awareness and encourage the regular monthly practice. Among the respondents 74 (78.7%) knew the gravity of breast cancer.