The Assessment and Comparison of the Knowledge of Breast Self-Examination and Breast Carcinoma Among Health Care Workers and the General Population in an Urban Setting

Background Breast cancer is one of the common causes of cancer related mortality in women. Early detection and treatment can combat the morbidity and mortality of breast cancer. Most first-world countries have a screening program to facilitate early detection of breast malignancy. A lack of similar programs in developing countries, compounded with ignorance and financial crunch, often leaves women vulnerable due to late detection and complications. Identification of early physical changes in breasts through regular breast self-examination (BSE) can potentially aid in the early detection of breast lumps. Ideally, all women should have access to screening programs, although, practically, it is difficult to achieve mass screening in resource-poor areas. BSE cannot completely bridge this gap in health care; however, it can undoubtedly aid in increased awareness, identification of danger signs, and timely approach to the health care center for intervention. Materials and method A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College, Pune, India. The participants were administered a pretested questionnaire to collect information about their understanding of BSE. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software, Version 25. Mean and frequencies were used to compare participants from various backgrounds. Results The total sample consisted of 1,649 women from various educational backgrounds. Every doctor had heard about BSE compared to 81% of women from the general population; 84% of doctors and less than 40% of women representing the general population were taught to perform BSE; however, only around 34% of all women perform BSE. Women from the general population were largely unaware of the correct age to begin BSE, the frequency of performance, its correlation with the menstrual cycle, and the steps necessary to perform it. Women employed in the health care industry were better informed than the general population but still needed to be aware of BSE's details. Conclusion The study highlighted the lack of information regarding breast malignancy and self-examination among women from all educational and professional backgrounds. Women in the health care sector are better informed about the topic than the general population but still lack adequate information. There is a dire need to train women about the procedure, frequency, and correct time of conducting BSE and the telltale signs of breast carcinoma. Women in the health care industry can be educated and trained as educators on the topic, who can further disseminate the information to the general population to promote early detection of breast malignancy.