Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Breast Cancer among Reproductive Age Female in rural community in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Bangladesh.This life threating condition  is the second leading cause of death due to cancer in our country. The reason behind the high prevalence rate of the diseases are the poor knowledge, delay in diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Early detection, heavily influenced by public knowledge and screening practices, is critical for improving outcomes. Assessing the awareness level among reproductive-age women in rural community level is essential for designing effective interventions. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding breast cancer among reproductive-age females attending in the Bhulta, Gawsia local market, Rupgonj,Bangladesh. Materials and Method: A prospective observational study was conducted at Rupgonj upazilla in   Bangladesh at Bhulta, Gawsia local market from January 2024 to December 2024. Using purposive sampling technique, 280 reproductive-age women (18-49 years) attending in the local market of Gawsia in Rupjonj upazilla  were enrolled. Data were collected through a pre-tested, semi- structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographics and KAP components. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. Results: Among 280 participants (mean age 32.1±6.8 years), general awareness was high (98.6%), but detailed knowledge of non-lump symptoms (<42%) and certain risk factors (e.g., never breastfeeding, 23.2%) was poor. Despite positive attitudes toward screening (>82%), preventive practices were critically low: only 19.3% performed regular breast self-examination, and 8.2% had ever undergone a clinical breast examination. Higher education and positive family history of breast cancer were significantly associated (p<0.01) with better knowledge and practice. Conclusion: A significant attitude-practice gap exists regarding breast cancer among women in rural community in Bangladesh. Integrating structured education and hands-on screening promotion into this facility's routine services is essential to translate awareness into preventive action and improve early detection outcomes.

J Med Coll Women Hosp.2026; 22(2): 211-218