Assessment of Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination Awareness among Young Women in Kalaburagi District, India: A Prospective Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women globally and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in India. Early detection significantly improves survival, and breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, cost-effective method for early identification of changes in breast tissue. Objective: To assess awareness of breast cancer and BSE among Young college students in Kalaburagi district. Methods: This prospective Quasi-Experimental study included 190 female students from multiple degree colleges over six months. Baseline knowledge was assessed using a structured questionnaire. An educational intervention using presentations, videos, and leaflets was conducted, followed by post-intervention assessment. Results: Pre-intervention, while 100% of participants had heard of breast cancer, only 11% had ever performed breast self-examination (BSE), and baseline knowledge was low across risk factors (24.8%), signs and symptoms (27.1%), BSE (21.6%), and detection and treatment (32.2%). Post-intervention, overall breast cancer knowledge increased to 95%, with substantial improvements in awareness of risk factors (67.5%), signs and symptoms (84.9%), BSE technique (67.3%), and detection and treatment modalities (76.8%). All improvements were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Baseline awareness of breast cancer and BSE among students was low but significantly improved with structured educational interventions. Targeted health education programs are essential to promote early detection and improve breast health literacy among young women.