Evaluation of Women's Knowledge about Risk Factors and Early Detection of Breast Cancer at Ibn Rushd College of Education in Baghdad University

Abstract

Objective: Evaluation of women's knowledge about risk factors and early detection of breast cancer at
Ibn Rushd college of education in Baghdad University.
Methodology: The study sample included (184) women in the Ibn Rushd College / University of
Baghdad, whose age ranged between (17-58) years. Data were collected through a structured
questionnaire prepared by the National Cancer Research Center which were answered during a scientific
symposium about breast cancer. The score was calculated by correcting the results of the answer, giving
one score for each correct answer and then estimating the level of knowledge and inputting all data in a
statistical program.
Results: The results showed limited level of women's knowledge about risk factors. As good, medium
and weak answer ratios of (11%).(21%) and (69%) each, respectively. . The study revealed no significant
relationship between the level of knowledge with age, occupation and married status (p < 0.05)). there
was more than half of a correct answer to some risk factors such as, increase the probability of disease
with age (53%), obesity in postmenopausal (53%) or breast self-examine once a month after the
menstrual cycle (69 %,), and more than 60% consent increasing physical activity and good nutrition and
maintaining a healthy weight and stay away from abuse hormones, alcohol be able to prevent of breast
cancer
Recommendations: Promoting public education and awareness campaigns on the risk factors for breast
cancer among women in university is mandatory to control the disease