Myths and truths about breast cancer
an assessment of knowledge before and after educational actions
Keywords:
Health Education, Health Promotion, Breast Neoplasms, Self Care, NursingAbstract
Objective: To evaluate women's knowledge of myths and facts related to breast cancer.
Method: A quasi-experimental study conducted in October 2024 with 32 women in the waiting room of the breast clinic at a Maternal-Child Reference Unit in Belém, Pará. A structured questionnaire was administered before and after two educational sessions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including absolute and relative frequencies.
Results: An increase in correct responses was observed for almost all questions following the educational interventions, particularly regarding deodorant use (34.38% to 93.75%), breast trauma (15.62% to 93.75%), silicone (25% to 93.75%), and tight bras (43.75% to 93.75%). There was also a reduction in “I don’t know” responses following the educational sessions on risk factors and breast cancer prevention.
Conclusion: The educational action demonstrated itself to be an effective strategy for expanding women’s knowledge about the myths and truths related to breast cancer.
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