Knowledge Of Breast Cancer And Early Detection Measures Among Reverend Sisters In Anambra State

ABSTRACT

This study assessed the knowledge of breast cancer and early detection measures of

reverend sisters in Anambra State. Eight objectives and eight research questions were

raised to guide the study. Cross-sectional descriptive survey design was used. A sample

size of 324 respondents was drawn from an estimated population of 794 sisters of the

various congregations living in communities located in Anambra State through

stratified, proportionate and convenient sampling techniques. Data were collected by

administration of a 17-item self-developed questionnaire through personal contacts by

the researcher and 3 research assistants. Data were analysed descriptively using

frequencies and percentages. Unpaired t-test was used to compare the responses of the

two groups of respondents. There was significant difference in the knowledge of breast

cancer preventive measures among the respondents. Only 61 (18.8%) of the sisters

described breast cancer as uncontrolled multiplication of breast tissue. As many as 52

(16.0%) of the respondents had no idea of what breast cancer means. Painless lump was

identified by 141 (43.5%) respondents as the early warning sign of breast cancer. There

was no significant difference in the awareness of early warning signs/symptoms of

breast cancer among the two groups (0.7438>p0.05) and what the two groups knew as

breast examination (0.8608>p0.05). Most popular breast cancer early detection

practices identified was breast self examination. More sisters in the active group seem

to be aware of this than the contemplatives. A good number of them had never done

breast self examination 50 (15.4%) and clinical breast examination 158 (48.8%). As

many as 148 (45.7%) respondents were not aware of where to obtain the services, and

73 (22.5%) avoided the detection measures because of fear of lumps. Not being aware

of where to obtain the services was a factor to reckon with, while at the same time, the

sisters preferred to live in ignorance for fear of a lump being detected. Congregations

should establish policy guidelines aimed at promoting adequate and urgent

dissemination of all relevant information about breast cancer; and, integrate breast

cancer screening procedures into their curriculum. There should be free access to

screening services in the government health institutions.