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). The spread of breast cancer has continued to increase at the rate 50–100% globally (Hayam, Howida, & Zakeya, 2014) and 0.5% each year since 1985 in Nigeria (WHO, 2004). Nigeria records about 500,000 new cases yearly since 2010 with a dismal 10% survival rate (Lambo, 2007; Salant et al., 2006). The Lagos State Ministry of Health observes that 15% of these cases occur in women less than 30 years, while majority of the cases occur at age range of 43–50 years (Oluwatosin, 2012; Adebamowo & Ajayi, 2006).
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 technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
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.
Despite the growing campaigns on breast cancer awareness in Nigeria generally and Southeast particularly (Okobia, Bunker, Okonofua, et al., 2006), the rates of its spread tend to grow while the practice of required remedial practices continue to vary widely among women. Most of the rural women are either unaware of the cancer, have poor knowledge of breast cancer, or exhibit poor preventive and curative practices (Akpo, 2010; Makanguola, Amoo, Ajibade, et al., 2003). Consequently, civil society organizations, and relevant agencies in the Southeast Nigeria embarked on multiple media programmes using different radio channels, televisions, newspapers, and social media to create awareness of the cancer, its preventive and curative behaviours or measures. This paper investigates the phenomenon in Southeast with a view to the level and nature of awareness therein, and the associated influence on the health behaviour of women.
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.
This disease affects different physical, mental, and social aspects of women life. On the other hand, such factors as social and family supports during the illness can reduce its negative impacts.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Knowledge of Breast Cancer among Female Teachers.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the issue of insufficient knowledge about breast cancer among female teachers in selected primary schools poses a significant concern. Despite the critical role of teachers in fostering educational development and health awareness in their communities, many female educators exhibit a limited understanding of breast cancer, including its symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures. This lack of knowledge may adversely affect their health behaviors and overall well-being.
Furthermore, cultural and socio-economic factors may exacerbate the problem by contributing to the stigma and discomfort associated with discussing breast cancer. These barriers often hinder open communication and education about the disease, further reducing the effectiveness of preventive measures and health interventions (Nguyen & Tran, 2019). The lack of comprehensive educational programs tailored to the needs of female teachers highlights the necessity for targeted interventions to improve awareness and knowledge.
To date, little research has been done regarding the impact of awareness programs in breast cancer control in Nigeria and even less at the community level in rural areas. Hence there is need to assess the impact of breast cancer awareness programmes on the prevention of breast cancer amongst Nigerian women.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to scrutinize the Knowledge of Breast Cancer among Female Teachers in selected Primary School. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To find out if there is any relationship between breast cancer preventive/curative measures and the contents of media campaign against it.
- To ascertain if the media campaign established a high level of awareness among Female Teachers in selected Primary School.
- To examine the relationship between breast cancer awareness and the practice of preventive/curative behaviours.
- To evaluate the impact of media breast cancer awareness campaign on the health behaviour of Female Teachers in selected Primary School.
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?
- What effect does breast cancer awareness programmes have on the prevalence of breast cancer?
- Is there any relationship between breast cancer preventive measures and the contents of media campaign against it?
- What is the media campaign established a high level of awareness among women?
- What is the impact of media breast cancer awareness campaign on the health behaviour of Female Teachers in selected Primary School?
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: There is no significant relationship between breast cancer preventive measures and the contents of media campaign against it.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between breast cancer preventive measures and the contents of media campaign against it.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: There is no significant relationship between breast cancer awareness and the practice of preventive/curative behaviours.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between breast cancer awareness and the practice of preventive/curative behaviours.
1.7 Significance of Study
The significance of improving knowledge of breast cancer among female teachers in selected primary schools extends to several key stakeholders.
- Enhancing breast cancer awareness among female teachers will contribute to their overall health and well-being, ensuring that they are better equipped to recognize symptoms early and seek timely medical attention. This will lead to improved health outcomes and potentially reduce the incidence of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses.
- For the students, having informed teachers who are knowledgeable about breast cancer will create a more health-conscious environment. Teachers will be able to model preventive health behaviors and promote health education within the classroom, fostering a culture of awareness and proactive health management among young learners.
- The educational institutions themselves will benefit as well. Schools with teachers who are well-informed about breast cancer will experience fewer absences related to health issues, leading to more stable and effective teaching environments. This will enhance the overall educational experience for students and contribute to better school performance.
- Community health organizations will gain valuable allies in their efforts to increase breast cancer awareness and prevention. Educated teachers can act as advocates for public health initiatives, helping to spread important information and encourage participation in screening programs within the community.
- Lastly, policy makers and health planners will have access to crucial data on the effectiveness of educational interventions. This will guide the development of targeted health policies and programs, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to improve breast cancer awareness and prevention across different sectors.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of this research is focused on the Knowledge of Breast Cancer among Female Teachers in selected Primary School in Warri-South Local Government Area, Delta State.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
The study on the knowledge of breast cancer among female teachers in selected primary schools faced several limitations.
- Insufficient data was a significant issue, as the sample size may not have been large enough to fully represent the diversity of female teachers in the area. This limitation could affect the generalizability of the findings to a broader population.
- Frequent power failures during the study period disrupted data collection and analysis processes, leading to delays and potential gaps in the data. These interruptions hindered the smooth operation of electronic data recording and analysis, which may have impacted the accuracy and completeness of the study results.
- Delays from respondents also posed a challenge. Some teachers took longer to complete surveys or participate in interviews than anticipated, which affected the overall timeline of the study. This delay potentially led to the loss of some valuable insights and contributed to time constraints faced during the research.
- Financial and time constraints were additional limitations. The study was restricted by limited funding, which affected the ability to reach a larger sample size and conduct more extensive data collection. Additionally, time limitations imposed by the study's schedule constrained the depth of the research, limiting the thoroughness of data analysis and the ability to address all relevant aspects of breast cancer knowledge comprehensively.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Breast Cancer: Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from the cells of the breast. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells within the breast tissue, which can invade surrounding tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body (American Cancer Society, 2020).
Knowledge: in the context of this study, knowledge refers to the awareness and understanding of breast cancer, including its symptoms, risk factors, methods of prevention, and available treatments. This encompasses both general awareness and specific information relevant to early detection and management of the disease (Chen & Zhang, 2017).
Preventive Measures: Preventive measures refer to actions taken to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer or to detect it early. This includes practices such as regular breast self-examination, clinical breast exams, mammography screenings, and lifestyle modifications that may reduce risk factors (World Health Organization, 2021).
Educational Intervention: An educational intervention is a structured program or activity designed to enhance knowledge and awareness about a specific topic. In this study, it refers to targeted programs aimed at improving female teachers' understanding of breast cancer through workshops, seminars, or informational materials (Taylor & Thompson, 2016).
