COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF BREAST HEALTH AND CANCER AWARENESS UNDERSTANDING SYMPTOM RECOGNITION AND BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION AMONG WOMEN IN INDIA, MALAYSIA, AND AFRICA

Abstract

Relevance. Breast cancer remains a significant global health concern, with 670,000 deaths reported worldwide in 2022 alone. It affects women of all ages, with approximately 2.3 million new cases diagnosed annually. Understanding breast health, symptom recognition, and the practice of breast self-examination (BSE) is crucial for early detection and improving outcomes. [1, 2]

Purpose of the Study.To assess breast health awareness and knowledge of breast self-examination among non-pregnant reproductive-aged women from India, Malaysia, and Africa.

Materials and Methods. An online survey was conducted among women of non-pregnant reproductive age (18-45) from India, Malaysia, and Africa, consisting of 69 participants. Its objective was to collect data on demographics, menstrual history, family history of breast cancer, breast self-examination (BSE) practices, awareness levels, and pain assessment using the Wong-Baker Pain Scale.

Results. Analysis of data from our online survey indicates that 49.3% of the respondents are Indian (34 participants), while 29% are Malaysian (20 participants), and 21.7% are Africans (15 participants). Menarche before 12 years old is reported by 66.67% of African women, 30% of Malaysian women, and 20.59% of Indian women. Irregular menstrual cycles are reported by 40% of Malaysian women, 29.41% of Indian women, and 13.33% of African women. African women have the highest proportion using oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) (46.67%), followed by Indian and Malaysian women with similar proportions (15.71% and 15%, respectively). African women have the highest proportion of experiencing frequent pain or discomfort in their breasts (26.67%), followed by Malaysian (20%) and then Indian women (11.76%). African women have the highest incidence of breast or nipple sensation changes (26.67%), including inversion, discharge, or skin alterations (6.67%), whereas Indian and Malaysian women show lower rates (14.71% and 15%, respectively). A higher percentage of African women (60%) have undergone a mammogram or breast ultrasound compared to Malaysian (20%) and Indian women (17.65%). Indian women exhibit a higher awareness of breast self-examination (76.47%) compared to African (73.33%) and Malaysian women (65%). However, the frequency of monthly BSE is lower among Indian women (23.53%) compared to African (26.67%) and Malaysian women (25%).

Conclusions. African women, reflecting the highest rates of menarche at an early age, frequent breast pain, and changes in nipples, alongside the high usage of OCPs and Malaysian women, reporting the highest prevalence of irregular menstrual cycles, significantly influence breast health outcomes and highlight the importance of considering regional variations in breast health. African women demonstrate higher mammogram or breast ultrasound utilization rates and proactive healthcare-seeking behavior. Indian women show greater awareness of breast self-examination despite lower frequency