Risk Factors, Health-Seeking Behavior, Knowledge, and Attitude for Cervical & Breast Cancer Among Urban School Teachers in Bangladesh
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Abstract
Background: Breast and cervical cancers are significant public health concerns, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh. Female school teachers, as a key demographic, may have unique risk factors and health-seeking behaviors that impact cancer outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors, health-seeking behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes toward breast and cervical cancer among female school teachers in urban Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to December 2023 among 180 female school teachers from 8 selected schools in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Data were collected using structured questionnaires addressing demographic information, cancer risk factors, health-seeking behaviors, and knowledge and attitudes regarding breast and cervical cancer. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests, were performed to assess associations between variables. Results: Participants were predominantly aged 35-44 years (38.9%), with 55.6% holding a graduate degree. Risk factors for breast cancer included low physical activity (33.3%) and oral contraceptive use (27.8%), while cervical cancer risk factors included low socioeconomic status (38.9%) and early marriage (27.8%). Health-seeking behaviors showed that 38.9% of participants had undergone clinical breast examinations, while only 33.3% visited health facilities for cervical cancer screening. Knowledge levels were concerning, with only 55.6% aware of breast cancer symptoms and 38.9% aware of cervical cancer symptoms. Significant associations were found between awareness of symptoms and health-seeking behaviors for both cancers (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings highlight critical gaps in knowledge and health-seeking behaviors regarding breast and cervical cancer among female school teachers in urban Bangladesh. There is an urgent need for targeted educational interventions to enhance awareness and promote timely health-seeking behaviors, particularly in vulnerable socioeconomic groups.
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