1.1 Introduction
Breast Cancer is a common female terminal disease across the world and in every culture with more than 4.7million new cases reported annually. 55% of this number occurs in Less Developing Countries (Adetifa & Ojikutu, 2009). Breast cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges faced by women worldwide. It is the most common cancer among women globally, accounting for approximately 25% of all cancer cases and 15% of cancer deaths among women. Early detection and prevention strategies are critical in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer. Women aged 35-45 represent a crucial demographic in breast cancer prevention. This age group is particularly relevant as they are often balancing career, family responsibilities, and health concerns, which may influence their health-seeking behaviors and attitudes towards preventive measures. Furthermore, women in this age bracket are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer compared to younger women, making awareness and preventive practices particularly pertinent.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Breast cancer is a critical public health issue and the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. It poses significant challenges not only due to its high incidence and mortality rates but also because of the psychological and economic burdens it imposes on patients, families, and healthcare systems. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, and approximately 685,000 died from the disease globally. The increasing incidence of breast cancer highlights the urgent need for effective prevention and early detection strategies.
Women aged 35-45 are a particularly important demographic for breast cancer prevention efforts. This age group often experiences a transition in life stages, balancing career and family responsibilities, which can impact their health-seeking behaviors. Additionally, while the risk of breast cancer increases with age, the period of 35-45 years is critical for instilling preventive practices that can have long-term benefits. Studies have shown that women's knowledge about breast cancer and their attitudes towards prevention significantly influence their participation in screening programs.
Previous research indicates varying levels of awareness and participation in breast cancer screening among women in different regions and socio-economic groups. Factors such as education, cultural beliefs, access to healthcare, and social support play crucial roles in shaping women's health behaviors. In many low- and middle-income countries, lack of awareness and limited access to screening facilities are major barriers to early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Conversely, in high-income countries, disparities still exist among different population groups due to socio-economic and cultural differences.
Breast cancer was and continues to be among the most prevalent and growing malignant diseases among Iranian women in the past four months. Breast cancer is a disease that involves the patient, family, and community, and wastes many financial and spiritual resources. This cancer is developed in breast tissues including ducts (tiny tubes that carry the milk) and lobules (milk-producing glands). Breast cancer is not gender- specific, but rarely develops in men. Although the exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, specific risk-factors have been identified. Different types of cancer have different risk factors. Some of these risk factors such as cigarette-smoking, alcohol use, and diet can be changed and depend on life style. However, other factors like age, race, gender, and family history are fixed and unchangeable. Having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean infliction.
Although many of these risk factors increase the chance of breast cancer development and progress, its exact mechanism is not clear. It seems that hormone plays a very important role in some types of breast cancer; however, its development and progress mechanisms are not very clear. In general, it can be said that such factors as aging, history of breast cancer development in family, certain changes in breasts, genetic changes, history of productivity and menopause, lack of physical activity, alcohol-use, diet and nutrition, race, and radiation therapy to chest are risk factors of breast cancer. Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of women aged 35-45 towards breast cancer prevention.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many women aged 35-45 lack comprehensive knowledge about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. Studies have shown that misconceptions and gaps in understanding can lead to delayed screening and diagnosis, which in turn affects treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Additionally, attitudes towards breast cancer screening can significantly influence participation rates. Fear of pain, anxiety about results, and cultural stigmas surrounding cancer can deter women from undergoing regular mammograms or clinical breast exams. Negative attitudes and beliefs about the efficacy and necessity of screening can reduce the likelihood of early detection.
Furthermore, despite recommendations, many women in this age group do not adhere to regular breast cancer screening practices. Factors such as lack of time, perceived inconvenience, and limited access to healthcare services contribute to low screening rates. This inconsistency in screening practices undermines early detection efforts. Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to examine the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Women Aged 35-45 Towards Breast Cancer Prevention.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Women Aged 35-45 Towards Breast Cancer Prevention. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To explore the attitudes of women aged 35-45 towards breast cancer screening methods such as mammography, clinical breast exams, and self-examination;
- To identify barriers and facilitators influencing their engagement in regular breast cancer screening and preventive practices;
- To determine the sources of information these women rely on for breast cancer-related knowledge;
- To identify the factors that influences their attitudes towards breast cancer prevention; and
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for public health interventions aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to breast cancer prevention among women aged 35-45.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is breast cancer?
- How can breast cancer be prevented?
- Are there significant factors that influence the attitudes towards breast cancer prevention?
- What are the sources of information these women rely on for breast cancer-related knowledge?
- What are the barriers and facilitators influencing their engagement in regular breast cancer screening and preventive practices?
- What are the attitudes of women aged 35-45 towards breast cancer screening methods such as mammography, clinical breast exams, and self-examination?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Women aged 35-45 with higher levels of knowledge about breast cancer and its prevention are not likely to participate in regular breast cancer screening practices than those with lower levels of knowledge.
- H1: Women aged 35-45 with higher levels of knowledge about breast cancer and its prevention are more likely to participate in regular breast cancer screening practices than those with lower levels of knowledge.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Positive attitudes towards breast cancer screening are not associated with higher rates of participation in preventive practices among women aged 35-45
- H1: Positive attitudes towards breast cancer screening are associated with higher rates of participation in preventive practices among women aged 35-45
1.7 Significance of Study
The outcome of the findings of this research showed that breast cancer remains a significant public health concern globally, and early detection through regular screening is crucial for improving survival rates. Also, women aged 35-45 are at a critical stage where the risk of breast cancer starts to increase. Identifying gaps towards breast cancer prevention can lead to targeted interventions aimed at improving early detection rates, ultimately reducing mortality and improving prognosis.
Additionally, encouraging healthy behaviors and regular screening practices among women aged 35-45 can have long-term benefits for their overall health and well-being. By promoting preventive measures early in life, individuals can adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce their risk of developing various diseases beyond breast cancer.
Furthermore, the findings from this study can inform the development of evidence-based policies and programs aimed at promoting breast cancer awareness, improving access to screening services, and enhancing healthcare provider training. These initiatives can contribute to broader public health efforts to combat breast cancer on a national and global scale.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of this research is focused on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Women Aged 35-45 Towards Breast Cancer Prevention in South-East Nigeria.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.10 Definition of Terms
Knowledge:
Awareness or understanding of information related to breast cancer, including its risk factors, symptoms, methods of detection, and preventive measures. This includes what women aged 35-45 know about breast cancer, such as how it develops, the importance of early detection, and available screening options.
Attitudes:
It is the personal feelings, beliefs, perceptions, and dispositions towards breast cancer prevention and screening. This encompasses women's beliefs about the necessity and efficacy of breast cancer screening, their feelings towards undergoing screening procedures, and their perceived vulnerability to breast cancer.
Practices:
It is the actual behaviors and actions taken by individuals related to breast cancer prevention, such as performing self-examinations, attending mammography screenings, and seeking medical advice. This term refers to how frequently women aged 35-45 engage in behaviors that can help detect breast cancer early or reduce their risk.
Breast Cancer Prevention:
It refers to the measures and practices aimed at reducing the risk of developing breast cancer or detecting it early when it is most treatable. This includes lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and awareness activities targeted at women aged 35-45 to lower their chances of getting breast cancer.
