Knowledge, attitude and practice of female students of Maragheh faculty of medical sciences on breastcancer

Breast cancer is one of the most frequent cancers, and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Since knowledge, early detection and prevention of breast cancer have had important role in reducing the burden of disease, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude andpractice of female students at the Maragheh faculty of medical sciences on breast cancer. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study which has been done on 300 students of the Maragheh faculty of medical sciences at 2014. Data were acquired by researcher- made standardized questionnaires.Findings: Results of the study showed that the highest percent of participants (59.2%) were in the age group of 18-20 year old. 6.2% of students have a family history of breast cancer. 69.2% of students have an acceptable attitude of risk factors, prevention, and early detection of breast cancer. 90%, 62%, and less than 1% of the students have moderate, weak, and high knowledge on breast cancer. Conclusion: The knowledge of students in this study was low on breast cancer, so because of importance of self-examination and early detection in prevention, it is suggested that effective instruction have been implemented in risk groups.

Keywords:

knowledge , attitude , behavior , breast cancer