Breast Cancer Knowledge Among University Female Students in Jordan: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is common among younger Jordanian women. Early detection prolongs survival rate. This study investigated the degree of knowledge of Jordanian female university students about BC, risk factors, and potential sign and symptoms. It also examined the relation between selected sociodemographic parameters and the practice of BC health-protective behaviors. This cross-sectional study involved a convenient sample of 372 undergraduate female students at the end of 2019. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire. Participants showed a moderate level of background knowledge (62.8% regarding BC). Knowledge about BC signs and symptoms ranged from 85.2% to 21.1%. Regarding the risk factors, the correct percent-age ranged from 86% to 32.8%. Statistically, there was a significant difference in the knowledge score between the nursing and law students (p.=.001), and the year of the study among participants; (p=.007). There was also a significant negative correlation between the participants’ practice of BC risky behavior and the level of BC knowledge (p<.003). Female university students have a moderate level of knowledge about BC. Thus, improving the quality of this knowledge is critical. There should also be a planning practical-educational program to teach young females about BC and how to correctly perform the Breast self-examination technique.