Knowledge and Screening Practices of Breast Cancer among Female Teachers in Pokhara, Nepal

Abstract

Background
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Nepal, and early detection is vital for reducing mortality. This study aimed to assess breast cancer knowledge and screening practices among female teachers in Pokhara, Nepal.
Methods
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 198 female teachers from 13 community schools in Pokhara Metropolitan, selected via single-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected from March 12 to April 9, 2024, using a semi-structured questionnaire after obtaining ethical clearance. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.
Results
Participants ages ranged from 21 to 58 years. Nearly half (44.9%) held a Master's degree in Education, and 62.1% taught at the primary level. Overall knowledge of breast cancer in three domains was present among only 2.5% of teachers, with knowledge of symptoms, risk factors, and BSE awareness/ at least monthly practice among 64.1%, 19.2%, and 16.7%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with BSE practice included a history of breast problems (p=0.016), marital status (p=<0.001), having had a clinical breast examination (p=0.003), having had a mammogram (p=0.003), higher perceived BSE self-efficacy (p=0.004), and benefit scores (p=0.011).
Conclusions
A low level of breast cancer knowledge and screening practice exists among school teachers. Targeted educational interventions focusing on risk factors, the benefits of BSE, and enhancing women's self-efficacy to perform BSE are recommended to improve breast cancer awareness and screening uptake.