Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors about Breast Self-Examination and Mammography among Female Primary Healthcare Workers in Diyarbakir, Turkey

Aim. This study aims to determine the knowledge level of the female primary healthcare workers about breast cancer and to reveal their attitude and behaviors about breast self-examination and mammography. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted on female primary healthcare workers who work in family health centres. 91% (n = 369) of female primary healthcare workers agreed to participate in the study. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge about breast self- examination, and actual practice of breast self-examination. Results. The mean (SD) age of the female primary healthcare workers was 33.1 +/- 6.8 (range, 20-54 years). The healthcare workers who practiced breast self- examination had significantly higher knowledge level (P = 0.001) than those who had not. The respondents had high knowledge level of breast self- examination; however, the knowledge level of breast cancer and mammography screen was low. Conclusions. While the female primary healthcare workers in this study had adequate knowledge of breast self-examination, this is not reflected in their attitudes and practices. Emphasis should be laid on breast self- examination in undergraduate and postgraduate courses for primary healthcare workers, since they are mostly involved in patient education.