The effect of a training program on female breast self-examination knowledge and practice among al-Azhar University students, Gaza strip, Palestine

الملخص EN

BSE is a good screening method for early detection of breast cancer.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a training program on female university students’ knowledge and practicing BSE.

A Quasi-Experimental design was used, interviewed questionnaire, and observation checklist were used to collect the data in the pre and post-tests.

Five sessions including various teaching methods were used during program implementation.

Forty-three students studying at the nutrition department (41.9%) or nursing department (58.1%) participated in the study.

After applying the program, the percentages of students' knowledge and practice BSE were increased.

Also, the frequency of practicing was increased from 23.3% in the pre-test to 69.8% in the post-test.

Paired t- test showed significant differences between the students' knowledge and practice pre and post-tests.

The results confirm the effectiveness of the education program to increase knowledge and practicing BSE.

There is a need to apply education programs in other female communities to empower them towards practicing BSE.