Continuation of Health Education Programs

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 97 views

Understanding the Relationship between Breast Cancer Knowledge and Behavioral Behavior in University Students

Introduction

Breast cancer is a significant health issue that affects millions of women worldwide, including Indonesia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Indonesia, accounting for 21.4% of all female cancer deaths in 2014. The high incidence of breast cancer and delayed diagnosis, which often leads to advanced stages, pose a significant challenge to public health. Improving public awareness of breast cancer risk factors and the importance of regular breast self-examinations can help prevent this disease. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the level of knowledge about breast cancer and the behavior of awareness among female students in the Faculty of Health and Non-Health at the University of North Sumatra.

Research Purpose

The primary objective of this study is to determine the difference in the relationship between the level of knowledge about breast cancer and the behavior of awareness between female students in the Faculty of Health and Non-Health. This study seeks to understand the impact of education on breast cancer awareness and behavior, with the ultimate goal of developing effective health education programs to promote breast health among young women.

Methodology

This study employed an analytical research design with a cross-sectional approach. The level of knowledge about breast cancer and aware behavior were measured using a validated questionnaire. The sampling technique used was Consecutive Sampling, with a minimum number of samples of 155 for each population. The study population consisted of female students in the Faculty of Health and Non-Health at the University of North Sumatra.

Results

The results of this study showed that the majority of respondents (74.3%) had a good level of knowledge about breast cancer. However, the behavior of awareness was lower, with only 56.8% of respondents classified as good. The analysis revealed a positive relationship between the level of knowledge and behavior of awareness, both in the population of the Faculty of Health (P = 0.029) and non-health (p = 0,0001).

Analysis and Discussion

The high level of knowledge about breast cancer among female students, especially in the Faculty of Health, is most likely influenced by a more health-oriented educational curriculum. Good education and proper information about breast cancer can contribute positively to the behavior of awareness. Good awareness behavior has the potential to detect breast cancer earlier, which in turn can increase the chances of healing. However, this result also shows that although the level of knowledge in respondents is quite good, there is still room to increase the behavior of awareness. Regular education and training campaigns on how to do awareness can help increase the awareness and skills of students in examining their breast health independently.

Conclusion

Education about breast cancer has a significant influence on one's behavior. Therefore, it is essential to continue the health education program that focuses on increasing knowledge about breast cancer and early prevention, so that the community, especially the younger generation, is more proactive in maintaining their breast health. This will help in preventive measures against breast cancer that is increasing. The findings of this study highlight the importance of education in promoting breast health awareness and behavior among young women. By understanding the relationship between knowledge and behavior, we can develop effective health education programs that can make a significant impact on breast cancer prevention.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Continuation of Health Education Programs: The health education program should continue to focus on increasing knowledge about breast cancer and early prevention.
Regular Education and Training Campaigns: Regular education and training campaigns on how to do awareness can help increase the awareness and skills of students in examining their breast health independently.
Development of Effective Health Education Materials: Effective health education materials should be developed to promote breast health awareness and behavior among young women.
Collaboration with Health Professionals: Collaboration with health professionals can help in developing effective health education programs that can make a significant impact on breast cancer prevention.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

Sample Size: The sample size was limited to 371 respondents, which may not be representative of the entire population.
Sampling Technique: The sampling technique used was Consecutive Sampling, which may not be the most effective method for this study.
Measurement Tools: The measurement tools used were validated questionnaires, which may not be the most effective method for measuring knowledge and behavior.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on:

Developing Effective Health Education Programs: Developing effective health education programs that can promote breast health awareness and behavior among young women.
Investigating the Impact of Education on Breast Cancer Awareness and Behavior: Investigating the impact of education on breast cancer awareness and behavior among different populations.
Developing Effective Health Education Materials: Developing effective health education materials that can promote breast health awareness and behavior among young women.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Breast Cancer Awareness and Education

Q: What is breast cancer, and why is it a significant health issue?

A: Breast cancer is a type of cancer that affects the breast tissue. It is a significant health issue because it is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Indonesia, accounting for 21.4% of all female cancer deaths in 2014.

Q: What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

A: The risk factors for breast cancer include:

Family history of breast cancer
Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Age (risk increases with age)
Radiation exposure
Hormonal factors (e.g., early menarche, late menopause)
Obesity
Physical inactivity
High alcohol consumption

Q: What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

A: The symptoms of breast cancer include:

A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
A change in the size or shape of the breast
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Redness or scaliness of the skin
Nipple discharge or tenderness
Changes in the nipple or areola

Q: How can breast cancer be prevented?

A: Breast cancer can be prevented by:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Engaging in regular physical activity
Eating a balanced diet
Limiting alcohol consumption
Avoiding radiation exposure
Getting regular mammograms and breast exams
Knowing your family history and genetic risk factors

Q: What is the importance of breast self-examination (BSE)?

A: BSE is an important tool for detecting breast cancer early. It involves regularly examining your breasts for any changes or abnormalities. By doing so, you can detect breast cancer at an early stage, when it is more treatable.

Q: What are the benefits of education on breast cancer awareness and behavior?

A: Education on breast cancer awareness and behavior can:

Increase knowledge about breast cancer risk factors and symptoms
Promote early detection and diagnosis
Improve treatment outcomes
Reduce mortality rates
Increase awareness and advocacy for breast cancer prevention and research

Q: How can education on breast cancer awareness and behavior be implemented?

A: Education on breast cancer awareness and behavior can be implemented through:

Health education programs
Public awareness campaigns
School-based education
Community outreach programs
Online resources and social media

Q: What are the challenges in implementing education on breast cancer awareness and behavior?

A: The challenges in implementing education on breast cancer awareness and behavior include:

Limited resources and funding
Limited access to education and healthcare
Cultural and social barriers
Lack of awareness and knowledge among healthcare providers
Limited availability of effective education materials and programs

Q: What are the future directions for education on breast cancer awareness and behavior?

A: The future directions for education on breast cancer awareness and behavior include:

Developing effective education programs and materials
Increasing awareness and advocacy for breast cancer prevention and research
Improving access to education and healthcare
Addressing cultural and social barriers
Encouraging community-based initiatives and partnerships.