From awareness to action: understanding self-breast examination practices among rural women in Mysuru

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and a major public health concern in India, where delayed diagnosis and poor awareness contribute to high mortality. Self-breast examination (SBE) is a simple, low-cost method that can promote early detection, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, awareness and practice of SBE remain inadequate among women in rural communities. To assess the awareness and practice of self-breast examination and to determine their association with socio-demographic factors among women attending a rural healthcare setting in Mysuru district, Karnataka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 525 women aged 18 years and above attending a rural healthcare facility. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic details, awareness of breast cancer, knowledge and practice of SBE, and perceived barriers. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, and associations were assessed using the Chi-square test. Results: The mean age of participants was 39.60±12.74 years. Awareness of SBE was low, with only 29.7% of women reporting awareness. Among those aware, 75% knew the procedure, but only 10.9% correctly identified the appropriate timing, and regular monthly practice was reported by a limited proportion. Practice of SBE was significantly associated with educational status and family history of breast cancer (p<0.05). Conclusion: Awareness and regular practice of SBE among rural women were suboptimal. Targeted community-based educational interventions are needed to improve knowledge, correct technique, and regular practice of SBE for early detection of breast cancer.