Abstract:

Introduction: Breast self-examination is one of the non-invasive methods of screening in which a woman looks for any abnormal findings like lumps, distortions, discharges or swellings with an intention to detect it early for early initiation of treatment and better chance of survival for breast cancer patients. Breast cancer has been an emerging health problem in Tanzania being the second malignant tumor in women. It being detected in its earliest stages, the progress may be interfered and improve one’s life time. This study aimed at assessing the level of knowledge, the attitude and practices on BSE among adolescent girls at Kibondo District in Kigoma region.

Study objective: The main objective of this study was to determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practices on Breast self-examination among adolescent girls at Kibondo district.

Methodology: A cross section study was conducted, focusing on the knowledge, attitude and practices on BSE among the adolescent girls at Kibondo District. Data were obtained through questionnaires structured in a simple language everyone could understand. The results were analysed by computer installed with SPSS 20 program. After data analysis, the final report was shared with the authorities at Kibondo District.Ethical clearance was given by CUHAS and Ethical clearance committee. In addition, permission from the district administration to the village level was obtained. Also the participants consented to be included in the study.

Results: A study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice on BSE among 314 participants in Kigoma, Tanzania. The majority of the respondents were young adults, aged below 20 years (76.1%). About 63.1% of the participants had appropriate knowledge on BSE, while 65.6% had a positive attitude towards the disease. However, 58% of the respondents had poor practices when it comes to practicing BSE.

Conclusion: This study found that the majority of the participants had a good understanding of breast self-examination (BSE) and a positive attitude towards it. However, a significant number of participants had poor practices, such as not performing BSE regularly or not knowing how to perform it correctly. These findings suggest that there is a need to increase public awareness of BSE and to promote its practice among all women of reproductive age.