Effectiveness of intervention on breast cancer among select students of Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is a public health problem worldwide and in India as well. Early diagnosis of this problem needs knowledge of the women. Further, belief on this disease also has been reported playing a role in taking steps in the early diagnosis and treatment. Methods: A total of 165 participants of this study include first year students pursuing various courses such as Agriculture, Medicine and Dentistry. The knowledge was assessed in terms of risk factors, symptoms, methods of diagnosis and self-breast examination. Belief on breast cancer was also assessed. After pre assessment, intervention with video and power point presentation was carried out. Then assessments were made at immediate and 24 hours after interventions. Results: Significant improvements in the knowledge and belief were observed from pre intervention to immediately after intervention. Knowledge gained was sustained at 24 hours after intervention. Significant improvements in belief were observed between immediate and 24 hour assessments. Conclusions: The intervention was found to be effective. As regards the belief on breast cancer, it was observed that temporal dimension of belief was revealed by the improvements between the assessments.

Awareness and knowledge of breast cancer and its screening methods among female undergraduate Allied Health Science students of a college in semi urban Chennai

“…This finding is comparatively low when compared to the results of another study conducted in Annamalai University, Chidambaram i.e., before intervention if considering both good and average level of knowledge as good knowledge. 8 There was less knowledge regarding various risk factors especially of reproductive and contraceptive history of among students. A study conducted on urban population in Mumbai reveals the same.…”

Can urban Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) be change agent for breast cancer awareness in urban area: Experience from Ahmedabad India

“…[10] It is reported that 25-32% of all cancers among women are from the cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Chennai. [11] Study shows that the scenario of breast cancer in India has increased incidence in younger Indian women and most of the patients only seek medical advice when the disease is fairly advanced. [12] Cancer registration is not mandatory in India, as it is restricted to only in the urban areas.…”