Assessment of Community Awareness of Breast Cancer Screening Among Asymptomatic Adults as a Strategy for Risk Reduction and Early Detection
TL;DR
Despite high awareness of breast cancer, important gaps in knowledge of risk factors and barriers to screening remain and targeted health education and improved access to affordable screening services are needed to promote early detection and increase breast cancer screening uptake.
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer worldwide, with about 2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths reported globally. This study aimed to assess community awareness of symptom-free breast cancer screening as a strategy for reducing disease risk and promoting early treatment. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out using a Google Form questionnaire between September and December 2025 in some states in Nigeria. A total of 156 adults (men and women aged 18 years and above) were conveniently recruited. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23, and associations were examined using the Chi-square test. Results: Females made up 79% of respondents, 51% were aged 30–39 years, and 85% had tertiary-level education. Most women (97%) had heard of breast cancer, 95% reported no family history of the disease, and 69% lacked knowledge of its risk factors. In addition, 59% indicated that financial cost prevented them from undergoing screening, while 85% identified early detection as the most effective preventive approach. Conclusion: Despite high awareness of breast cancer, important gaps in knowledge of risk factors and barriers to screening remain. Targeted health education and improved access to affordable screening services are needed to promote early detection and increase breast cancer screening uptake.