Impact of Breast Cancer Awareness for Early Detection in Western Maharashtra.

Introduction Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. It accounts for 27% of all cancer cases among women in India. In developing countries, the majority of cases are diagnosed in the later stages which are difficult to treat. Breast self-examination is one of the most important methods in the early detection of Breast cancer. Materials and Methods: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of awareness & skills transfer of Breast self-examination among peripheral health workers for early detection of breast cancer in Western Maharashtra. Socio-demographic Proforma, structured awareness questionnaire on breast cancer and BSE, and checklist on factors affecting adherence and Non-adherence with BSE checklist. It was an experimental Evaluatory research approach. Two groups pre-test-post-test design. A study was conducted on 50 peripheral health workers participating in this study from Karad taluka. Conclusion: The level of awareness and skill on BSE among peripheral health workers are unacceptably low. Efforts should be made to increase level of knowledge and practice of BSE through health education programs.