What Is the Current State of Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Toward Breast Cancer? A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Health and Non-health College Students

Abstract

ObjectiveTo document breast cancer (BC) knowledge, awareness, and attitudes among female undergraduate students studying at health and non-health colleges.MethodsA 3-month cross-sectional study was conducted among female undergraduate students studying at health and non-health subject colleges affiliated to a public university. Convenience sampling was employed, and a previously validated questionnaire available in English and Arabic languages was used. Multiple linear regression was used to report the predictors of BC knowledge. A two-tailed p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant. The study was approved by an ethics committee.ResultsA total of 506 responses were analyzed. The mean knowledge score was 13.98 ± 4.1. The findings of the surveyed students suggested that more than 55% of the students had an acceptable level of knowledge. By education sector, approximately 70% and 40% of health and non-health college students, respectively, had an acceptable level of knowledge. The mean difference in knowledge scores between students of health and non-health colleges was significant (p < 0.001) as students at health colleges had a higher score. Age, college type and the presence of the disease in family/relatives were significant predictors of students' BC knowledge (p < 0.05).ConclusionBy comparing it with previous evidence, the knowledge of BC has improved. The role of awareness campaigns as an information medium for students from non-health backgrounds is greatly appreciated. Moreover, the internet and electronic media have emerged as new sources of information for non-health college students, and therefore, more efforts are needed to utilize this medium in empowering this student population in understanding of this disease.

Awareness of and Attitude to Breast Self-Examination and Breast Cancer Among Females in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

“…The three most recognized symptoms of breast cancer, as reported by our respondents, are breast lump, nipple changes, itching in the breast, and changes in breast size and shape. This is in line with two previous studies [ 11 , 13 ]. However, a large proportion of our sample didn’t recognize nipple secretions, breast pain, and soreness as symptoms of breast cancer.…”

“…But, most of them don’t practice BSE [ 12 ]. Lastly, a study conducted among 506 female undergraduate students demonstrated an acceptable level of knowledge [ 13 ].…”

Beliefs, awareness, use, and factors associated with herbal supplements usage among patients with chronic diseases–A cross-sectional insight from Alkharj, Saudi Arabia

“…population of 425300. Study sample size was calculated after adjusting potential nonresponse rate using below formula as described in various studies [ 13 – 15 ], where n is “required sample size”, N is “total population size”, d is “error margin” (usually 0.05 is an ideal value when “confidence interval/level” is at 95%, n n is “sample size (after consigning nonresponse rate”, n is “earlier calculated sample size”, and d is “nonresponse rate”. After the above calculation, the final sample estimated for this study was 460 whereby we managed to obtain 533.…”

“…population of 425300. Study sample size was calculated after adjusting potential nonresponse rate using below formula as described in various studies [13][14][15],…”

Knowledge, attitude, and perceptions about polycystic ovarian syndrome, and its determinants among Pakistani undergraduate students

“…Therefore, it requires concerted efforts to address the knowledge debacle. Considering the example of universities in Saudi Arabia to increase awareness of women specific disease such as breast cancer [ 25 ], universities in Pakistan can follow suit and observe a month of awareness of PCOS, conduct awareness campaigns during this time, distribute educational materials and pamphlets, merchandize with awareness logo and signage, etc., and arrange talks or seminars for their students with renowned professionals having substantial contribution in this field.…”