Effects of A Breast Cancer Educational Intervention On Fear And Self- Breast Examination Performance: Randomized Controlled Trial Breast Cancer Education
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. Although regular breast self-examination (BSE) may facilitate early detection, many women have inadequate BSE skills and experience fear related to breast cancer. This study aimed to determine the impact of breast cancer and BSE education on women’s breast cancer fear and BSE skills.
Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted between February 1 and May 15, 2024, among 96 women (intervention group, 48; control group, 48) aged 20 to 60 years affiliated with a health center in western Turkey. Data were collected using a personal information form, Champion’s Breast Cancer Fear Scale, and a BSE checklist. Baseline characteristics were compared using χ2 and independent-samples t tests. Within-group changes were analyzed using paired-samples t tests. Postintervention breast cancer fear and BSE skill scores were additionally analyzed using ANCOVA with baseline scores entered as covariates. The study was conducted in accordance with the CONSORT guideline.
Results: The intervention and control groups were comparable regarding sociodemographic and breast cancer screening characteristics at baseline. No significant effect of the intervention on breast cancer fear scores was observed. BSE skill scores increased significantly in both groups; however, postintervention scores were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (mean [SD], 88.75 [14.82] vs 57.70 [20.95]; P < .001). The number of lumps detected on the breast examination model increased significantly within both groups after the intervention, although no significant between-group differences were found.
Conclusion: Breast cancer and BSE education significantly improved women’s BSE skills. Practical training supported by breast examination models may be an effective strategy for enhancing breast cancer awareness and promoting accurate BSE performance. Further studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to evaluate the sustainability of these effects.
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