Determination of Breast Self-Examination Knowledge and Breast Self-Examination Practices among Women and Effects of Education on their Knowledge

This study aims to determine breast self-examination (BSE) knowledge and practices among women who were attending adult education courses in the city of Bursa in April 2007. Data were collected from women (n=89) who were attending adult education courses. Data collection form consisted of questions related to socio-demographic variables, BSE knowledge, and practices of women. After introducing a planned education on breast cancer and breast self-examination, women's knowledge were retested. The participants were between 16 years-52 years of age, 46.1% were married, 20.2% reported having cancer in family members, while none were reported having breast cancer in close family member. Many participants were aware about breast self-examination. Television and journals-books were primary sources of women's knowledge. Being young, not knowing how to perform BSE, not considering herself in a risk group, and having a fear of finding something bad are some of the reasons for not performing BSE. Participants' knowledge regarding BSE and breast cancer has been improved after introducing the education.