International Journal of Innovative Research in Health Science

Introduction: Breast cancer is among the prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality in women all over the world. Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is an important tool that can be used to detect the disease earlier and increase the chances of survival. But ignorance and poor knowledge on BSE among young women is one of the serious issues. Aim: The aim was to examine the effectiveness of an information package on knowledge about Breast Self-Examination in undergraduate and postgraduate students of Zoology Department in Lady Doak College, Madurai. Methodology: A one-group pre-test pre-experimental post-test quantitative evaluative methodology was taken. Convenience sampling was applied in selecting 100 students. The structured knowledge questionnaire was used to collect data and comprised of 30 items and socio-demographic variables as a measure of BSE. The pre-test data were carried out prior to the intervention after which an information package was administered using PowerPoint presentation, models and pamphlets. The same tool was used to gather the post-test data. Analysis of data was done using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, percentage, and chi-square test. Results: In the pre-test, low knowledge in 25% and moderate in 75% students and high knowledge in none of the students were observed. Low knowledge was reduced to 21 in the post-test, moderate knowledge to 50 and high knowledge to 29. Significant association of course of study, type of family and source of information with levels of knowledge was found. Conclusion: The information package was successful in increasing the knowledge of the students on Breast Self-Examination. A frequent educational intervention is suggested to raise the level of awareness and focus on early detection among young women.