Knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and methods for its early detection among the primary health-care workers in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is an increasing health problem in India. Screening for early detection should lead to a reduction in mortality from the disease. Majority of the population, especially in rural areas, contact health-care system through primary health-care workers. AIM: To know the knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and methods for its early detection among the primary health-care workers in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study questionnaire study was conducted among primary health-care workers (both males and females) in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16. The statistical tests used were t-test, ANOVA, and Fisher's exact test. P = 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Out of a total of 120 patients, there were 46 males (38.3%) and 74 females (61.7%). The mean age of the population was 48.5 ± 5.3 years, with a range of 25 and 57 years. The mean knowledge score percent of the present population was 71.04 ± 18.3. The mean knowledge score was higher among males (73.9 ± 19.8) as compared to females (69.2 ± 17.2). Approximately 43.3% of the participants had very good knowledge about risk factors followed by 31.7% having excellent knowledge, 20% having good knowledge, and 5% having poor knowledge. CONCLUSION: The overall mean knowledge percent about breast cancers among primary health-care workers in this study was very good, slightly higher among males and postgraduates, but to make it universal, reinforcement of educational programs can be planned for them.