Awareness and Ability Regarding Breast Self- Examination (BSE): A Interventional Study in Rural Area Haryana

Breast Cancer is a life threatening disease affecting women. Awareness should be created among women regarding breast self examination for early detection of breast cancer. The study was aimed to assess and compare the awareness and ability regarding breast self examination among women in rural area. Materials and Methods: Quasi experimental study was carried out among a total sample of 80 women (40 experimental and 40 comparison group of age group 20-40 years) in rural area. Structured knowledge questionnaire and observation checklist was used for data collection. Result: There were lack of awareness and ability regarding breast self examination. The main reason of not performing the breast self examination were; Being afraid of being diagnosed with breast cancer, don�t know how to perform BSE, no complaint in breast and no time to perform There was significant difference between awareness and ability score in experimental group than comparison group. The level of awareness of breast self examination was highest in experimental group than comparison group. Conclusion: In present setting post educational program not only improve women awareness but also improve the ability to perform. The result suggests the need of continuing educational program to be aware and motivate to perform the BSE.