Applying multi-theory model to determine intentions to breast self-awareness among female health workers in Kabul, Afghanistan

Background In women, breast cancer has the highest incidence compared to other cancers. Breast self-awareness may facilitate early detection of cancer through self-examination. This study aimed to apply the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change to determine breast self-awareness intentions among female health workers in the western region of Kabul. Method Female health workers from Western Kabul city were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study by visiting different health centers using a convenience sampling method. A 37-item researcher-developed questionnaire with established validity and reliability based on MTM was used. In this study, 130 eligible participants completed the questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was used to explain breast self-awareness behavior. Results The mean age of the participants was 26.46 years (SD = 5.2). The study found that changes in the physical environment (β = 0.095, p = 0.012) and behavioral confidence (β = 0.053, p = 0.010) were significantly associated with initiation of breast self-awareness. In addition, intention to maintain breast self-awareness behavior was significantly associated with practice for change (beta = 0.161, p < 0.001) and changes in the social environment (beta = 0.077, p = 0.008). Conclusion The findings suggest that constructs of the Multi-Theory Model are associated with initiation and maintenance of breast self-awareness behavior. These results provide preliminary evidence supporting the relevance of the MTM framework in this population. Future interventions may benefit from incorporating these constructs to promote breast self-awareness for breast cancer prevention.