Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Breast Cancer Screening Among Women in Perak State, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Atheeq Abdul Raheem Muhammed; Wania Ahmed Khan; Syaril Rohan Bin  Roseli; Ateyah Saleh; Nabeeha Mohamed Fauzee

doi:10.5281/zenodo.21723089

Atheeq Abdul Raheem Muhammed MBBS year 3 students, Faculty of Medicine
Wania Ahmed Khan MBBS year 3 students, Faculty of Medicine
Syaril Rohan Bin Roseli MBBS year 3 students, Faculty of Medicine
Ateyah Saleh MBBS year 3 students, Faculty of Medicine
Nabeeha Mohamed Fauzee MBBS year 3 students, Faculty of Medicine

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21723089

Keywords: Breast, cancer, educational, knowledge, practice, screening, women

Abstract

Introduction:

Breast cancer prevalent globally, has high mortality rates among women. Screening reduces risk, but inadequate participation, awareness suffers due to cultural barriers, knowledge and healthcare accessibility issues. This study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practice of breast cancer screening among Perak women, examining sociodemographic factors to identify gaps for targeted health education initiatives revealing barriers in Malaysia, particularly in Perak State where data is sparse.

Methods:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from February 2025 to May 2025. A structured questionnaire was distributed online via Google Forms, where 233 respondents participated.

Results:

Overall, participants demonstrated moderate knowledge regarding breast self-examination (BSE). Participants showed positive attitudes toward BSE. Almost all respondents agreed that BSE is beneficial. Although 80.3% expressed fear when thinking about breast cancer, only 24.89% reported avoiding BSE because of this fear. Despite generally positive knowledge and attitudes, BSE practice was suboptimal. Slightly over half of the participants reported practicing BSE (51.5%), while only one-third performed it monthly (33.48%).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that participants have moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward BSE, but practice is lacking. Proper practical training BSE education may bridge this gap and improve outcomes.