Design, implementation and Evaluation of Self-Care Program in the Prevention of Breast Cancer Among Women in Isfahan: A Community-Based Participatory Action Research Protocol

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among women in Isfahan, Iran but unfortunately its prevention is not desirable in this city. This disease poses several healths, social and economic burdens upon women. In order to promote women's self-care in breast cancer prevention, this study aims to design, implement and evaluate a self-care program in the prevention of breast cancer among women in Isfahan through using a community-based participatory action research method.Methods: The present study will be conducted based on a community-based participatory action research in Isfahan, Iran. The participatory action research in this study will include four general phases of organizing, action planning, action and rethinking. The mentioned phases will be as follows: In the organizing phase, the needs of the participants and the action research settings are examined. This means that the current situation is identified and the views of the process owners are evaluated. In the action planning phase, using the results of the first phase, some strategies are designed in order to promote self-care behaviors in the prevention of breast cancer among women in Isfahan. In the implementation phase, the selected strategies are implemented with the help of the process owners. Finally, in the rethinking phase, the results of the implementation of the strategies are monitored and evaluated, and this cycle continues until the intended results are achieved. Discussion: Changing the role of individuals from a passive state in the care process to an aware and active state requires motivation, responsibility and active participation of people in the disease control process. Moreover, there are many cultural and social factors which affect the active participation of Iranian women. As such, using a community-based participatory action research, people can be involved in promoting their health.