Impact of education program on breast self examination among a group of women in the Kurdistan Women Union, Erbil city

Background and objective: Breast cancer is a global health concern. It has been identified as a major public health problem in both developed and developing nations. Breast cancer associated morbidity and mortality can be reduced through early detection and diagnosis by breast self-examination. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and practices regarding breast self-examination, and determine the effectiveness of a teaching program on breast self- examinations' knowledge and practice among the women who are members of the Kurdistan Women Union. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Kurdistan Women Union building in Erbil city in Kurdistan Region of Iraq from June 1st to August 30th, 2015. Fifty-one women were included in the study. A questionnaire was designed and divided into three parts: socio-demographic data, previous obstetrical history, and knowledge and practices regarding breast self-examination. The checklist for the theoretical session included the knowledge about breast self-examination. Results: The highest percentage of women was in the age 18-30 years old, graduated from primary school, married, and no family history of breast problems. The participant’s knowledge and practice regarding breast self-examination were poor but throughout the educational program their knowledge was improved. There was a statistically significant difference between pre and post- educational program. Conclusion: The study concluded that training women about breast self-examination have a positive impact on their related knowledge and practices.