Effectiveness of a Structured Health Education Program on Breast Self-Examination Practices Among Women
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Background: Breast cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity among women globally, with early detection playing a critical role in improving outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings where access to screening is restricted. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a cost-effective strategy, yet its regular and correct practice remains suboptimal due to inadequate confidence and technical skills. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured health education program in improving confidence, frequency, and technique of BSE among women aged 20–50 years in Central Punjab. Methods: A parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted among 80 women randomly allocated to intervention (n = 40) and control (n = 40) groups. The intervention included interactive sessions with demonstration and supervised practice, while the control group received routine health information. Outcomes assessed at baseline and four weeks included confidence (validated scale), monthly BSE practice (self-report), and technique accuracy (observational checklist). Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, chi-square tests, ANCOVA, and correlation analysis, with effect sizes reported as mean differences and risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: At follow-up (n = 76), the intervention group demonstrated significantly higher confidence scores (33.6 ± 4.8 vs. 25.2 ± 5.1; mean difference 8.4, 95% CI: 6.1–10.7; p < 0.001), greater adherence to monthly BSE (71.1% vs. 31.6%; RR 2.25, 95% CI: 1.36–3.71; p < 0.001), and improved technique scores (8.4 ± 1.2 vs. 5.9 ± 1.5; mean difference 2.5, 95% CI: 1.9–3.1; p < 0.001). Confidence was strongly correlated with practice frequency (r = 0.62, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Structured, interactive health education significantly enhances confidence, adherence, and technical accuracy of BSE, offering a scalable strategy for improving preventive breast health behaviors in community settings.
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