The Determining Factor of Practicing Breast SelfExamination Among Women in Hai Duong, Vietnam: An application of the Health Belief Model

— Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that influence breast self-examination (BSE) practice among women in Hai Duong, Vietnam using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Maternal and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in three Hai Duong provinces and Vietnam communes. A total of 309 women participated aged from 20-59. Results: Only 3.2% of the respondents indicated they had regularly performed BSE, and 7.7% completely performed all 5 steps of BSE. The results of our study indicated that the HBM variables were significantly associated with BSE practice (Except for the cues to action variable p=0.633> 0.05). The results of the logistic regression analysis show that higher perceived self-efficacy and lower perceived barriers were unique correlates of BSE practice. Conclusion: Women in rural Hai Duong province have low awareness and implementation of breast cancer screening. Lack of information and lack of technical guidance may be responsible for the limited practice of correct breast selfexamination. Therefore, BSE training programs that emphasize selfefficacy and perceived barriers are recommended.