KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE & PRACTICE REGARDING BREAST CANCER AND BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION (BSE) AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA (IIUM)

KAP on BSE among students in IIUM

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of global cancer mortality, due to late detection. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding breast cancer and breast self-examination among students. Methodology: A survey was conducted among 36 undergraduate students from International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang who attended the Breast Cancer Webinar post six-month intervention using a validated questionnaire on knowledge, awareness on breast cancer, and practice of breast self-examination. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, Independent T-test, One-way ANOVA, and Pearson Correlation via SPSS version 27.0. Results: The mean age of the participants was 22.69 (±1.470), female (83.3%), Malay (100.0%), year 4 (61.1%), single (100.0%), with no family history of breast cancer (97.2%) and have experience in taking care of breast cancer patients (50.0%). There was a significant association between faculty of study and knowledge of risk factors (p=0.008) along with signs and symptoms of breast cancer (p < 0.001). Gender (p<0.001) and area of residence (p<0.001) were associated with awareness of breast cancer and breast self-examination. For practice domain, only gender was associated with breast self-examination (p=0.011).  Conclusion: This study showed undergraduates still have moderate knowledge, attitude, and practice towards breast cancer and BSE even after the intervention. Integration of technology is required in the future awareness program.