Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de la autoexploración mamaria en mujeres de la parroquia Borrero, Azogues-Ecuador. 2024-2025

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of breast cancer has increased in recent years, particularly in developing countries. Breast self-examination is an early detection tool capable of reducing breast cancer incidence rates. Objective: To analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination among women in the Borrero parish, Azogues, during the 2024–2025 period. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative, and analytical observational study was conducted among 330 women in the Borrero parish. A survey titled “Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Breast Self-Examination (BSE)” was administered. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, employing frequencies, percentages, and Pearson’s chi-square test. Results: Of the 330 women, 59.8% were between the ages of 18 and 29, while 40.2% were between the ages of 30 and 40. A significant association was found between age and the level of knowledge about breast self-examination (p=0.032). Marital status also significantly influenced attitudes toward BSE (p=0.045). A significant relationship was found between occupation and the practice of BSE (p=0.038). Conclusions: In conclusion, a significant relationship was found between sociodemographic factors and the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices; as age increases, knowledge about breast self-examination decreases, while attitudes and practice are influenced by marital status and occupation, respectively. There is a need to promote initiatives aimed at strengthening knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding breast self-examination. Keywords: breast self-examination, breast neoplasms, KAP, physical examination