Breast Cancer and Early Screening Among Female Teachers in Misurata: Evaluating Awareness and Practices

• Alyaa E. M. Azzain

  Community Medicine, Misurata University, Libya

  Author

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the Eastern Mediterranean region, and the first or second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among females. The study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of female teachers in Misurata City, Libya, regarding breast cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, and screening methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted through a web-based validated questionnaire; 430 responses were received. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v26. 60.5% of participants exhibited a low level of knowledge regarding risk factors, about (73.3%) revealed an excellent level of knowledge concerning breast cancer signs and symptoms, and more than half (53.0%) had a low level of knowledge about breast cancer screening. About 65% of participants exhibited a positive attitude towards breast cancer screening, (65.1%) frequently practice breast cancer screening. Although women in Misurata City have a positive attitude toward breast cancer screening, their poor knowledge hinders them from adopting proper practice techniques. This suggests a need to provide more awareness programs for Libyan women to improve their breast cancer knowledge and practice.

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