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Breast self examiniation among non-health professionals in Nigeria


Mbanaso Augustus
Adisa Adeyinka
Okoye Chinyelu
Mbanaso Chidinma

Abstract

The Department of Surgery of Abia State University Teaching Hospital Aba, before implementing an extensive Breast Cancer Awareness Programe) in Abia State, did a preliminary survey using a questionnaire on breast self – examination among three hundred and fifty (350) non-health professionals, to ascertain whether they have heard and did practice breast self – examination. Respondents were teachers, civil servant, lawyers, bankers, traders, female undergraduates, retired public servants and business women. It was found out that only 202 (61.4%) have heard of breast self examination (BSE) which 124 (37.7) try to practice BSE, only 59 (17.9%) knew the proper method of BSE. It was also found that 194 (59%) were aware of the gravity of breast cancer in the community. These findings call for serious public health awareness for breast self examination and therefore the need to mount a breast cancer awareness program in Nigeria.

Nigerian Journal of Surgical Sciences Vol. 15(2) 2005: 74-77

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