Abstract

*Ehwarieme T.A1, Amiegheme F.E2, Unigwe J.K3 and Ugwueze J.O4

Worldwide, breast cancer is the second most frequent cancer and the fifth cause of cancer-related mortality. This study was conducted to assess the level of awareness of breast cancer and practice of breast self examination among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in some selected health centres in Benin City, Edo state. A descriptive cross sectional survey design was adopted. Pregnant women were recruited using convenient sampling technique. The research instrument used was questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Result shows that 133 (61.3%) had good awareness and 84 (38.7%) had poor awareness of breast cancer. 101 (46.5%) exhibited poor awareness of breast self-examination, while only 56 (25.8%) had good awareness of breast self-examination. 183 (84.3%) exhibited poor practice of breast self-examination. Perceived hindrance to practice of breast self-examination were lack of time (3.20±1.115), Negligence (3.12±1.025), lack of breast cancer symptom (3.28±0.966) and fear of the unknown (3.22±0.956). A statistically significant relationship (p<0.001) between awareness of breast cancer and awareness of breast selfexamination was found. Marital status of the respondents showed a statistically significant relationship (p<0.000, OR = -0.230, CI 95% = -0.343 – -0.117) and education of the respondents showed a statistically significant association (p<0.000, OR = 0.135, CI 95% = 0.064 – 0.205). Regular health education for pregnant women especially during their antennal clinic should be intensified to increase the practice of breast self examination.