Community-Based Strategies for Improving Breast Cancer Awareness among Women in Urban Settings, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women globally and the leading cause of cancer related mortality among women in India. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, yet awareness levels remain low, particularly among urban low-income communities. Community-based health education interventions offer a cost-effective approach to improving knowledge and screening practices. Objectives: To assess the pre-interventional level of breast cancer awareness, administer a structured health education programme, evaluate post-interventional knowledge, and determine the effectiveness of community based strategies on breast cancer awareness among women in Ramlingeshwara Nagar, Hubli, Karnataka. Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed. A total of 120 women aged 20–60 years residing in Ramlingeshwara Nagar, Hubli, Karnataka were selected using purposive sampling. A validated structured knowledge questionnaire with 30 items covering general awareness, signs and symptoms, risk factors, breast self-examination (BSE), and screening methods was used. A structured health education programme was delivered through group sessions, demonstrations, IEC materials, and community health workers. Post-test was conducted four weeks after intervention. Results: Pre-test findings revealed that 29.2% (n=35) of participants had poor knowledge, 43.3% (n=52) had average knowledge, 20.8% (n=25) had good knowledge, and only 6.7% (n=8) had excellent knowledge. Post-test findings showed a significant improvement: 60% (n=72) attained excellent knowledge and 31.6% (n=38) attained good knowledge. The overall mean knowledge score increased from 11.2/30 (37.3%) to 25.3/30 (84.3%). The improvement was statistically significant (paired t = 28.41, df = 119, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Community-based structured health education programmes are highly effective in improving breast cancer awareness among urban women. Integration of such programmes into routine community health activities and ASHA/ANM outreach is strongly recommended.