Universal Journal of Public Health Vol. 13(3), pp. 627 - 641
DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130311
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Factors Associated with Breast Self-Examination Awareness and Knowledge among Female Students in Saudi Nursing Colleges: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Roqia Saleem Maabreh ¹, Rami A. Elshatarat ^2,*, Mahmoud H. Alrabab'a ³, Ghaida Shujayyi Alsulami ⁴, Majed S. Al-Za'areer ⁵, Bandar Naffaa Alhumaidi ⁶, Khulud Ahmad Rezq ⁷, Amal Ali Alasmari ⁸, Amal Ali Alharbi ⁹, Hilana Ahmad Al-Kharouf ^10
1 Department of Nursing, Nursing College, Irbid National University, Jordan
² Department of Medical and Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Taibah University, Saudi Arabia
³ Prince Al‑Hussein Bin Abdullah II Academy for Civil Protection, Al‑Balqa Applied University, Jordan
⁴ Department of Clinical Nursing Practices, Faculty of Nursing, Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia
⁵ Department of Nursing Management and Education, College of Health Science and Nursing, Al- Rayan Colleges, Saudi Arabia
⁶ Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Taibah University, Saudi Arabia
⁷ Department of Community & Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
⁸ Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
⁹ Department of Nursing Leadership and Education, Faculty of Nursing, University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
¹⁰ Nursing College, Applied Science Private University, Jordan

ABSTRACT

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a major public health issue worldwide, and early detection through practices like Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is critical. Nursing students, especially those in Saudi Arabia, play a key role in disseminating health information. Understanding their knowledge of BSE and associated factors is essential for enhancing educational programs. Purpose: This study aims to assess female nursing students' exposure to BC education, evaluate their general knowledge of BSE, investigate their understanding of breast health and BC, and identify significant factors influencing their knowledge of BSE. Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed among 384 female nursing students from various campuses in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire between April and May 2024. The questionnaire included sections on demographics, exposure to BC information, and knowledge of BSE. A convenience sampling method was used, and statistical analysis was conducted using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation tests. Results: The study participants had an average age of 21.1 years, with most (85.9%) being single and spread across different academic years. Most (91.1%) had received education on BC, primarily through their nursing courses. A significant majority (91.9%) knew the BSE process, and 78.1% had performed BSE at least once, with 62.8% practicing it regularly. Knowledge of BSE was generally high, with 80.7% correctly identifying its purpose and 84.6% knowing it should be performed monthly. Significant factors influencing BSE knowledge included academic level, exposure to BC education, and family history of BC. Conclusions: Female nursing students in Saudi Arabia generally possess good knowledge of BSE, with education and academic exposure playing a significant role. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to address gaps and enhance the proactive health behaviors of future healthcare professionals.

KEYWORDS
Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Breast Cancer Awareness, Nursing Students, Saudi Arabia, Health Education, Preventive Health Behaviors

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Roqia Saleem Maabreh , Rami A. Elshatarat , Mahmoud H. Alrabab'a , Ghaida Shujayyi Alsulami , Majed S. Al-Za'areer , Bandar Naffaa Alhumaidi , Khulud Ahmad Rezq , Amal Ali Alasmari , Amal Ali Alharbi , Hilana Ahmad Al-Kharouf , "Factors Associated with Breast Self-Examination Awareness and Knowledge among Female Students in Saudi Nursing Colleges: A Cross-Sectional Analysis," Universal Journal of Public Health, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 627 - 641, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130311.

(b). APA Format:
Roqia Saleem Maabreh , Rami A. Elshatarat , Mahmoud H. Alrabab'a , Ghaida Shujayyi Alsulami , Majed S. Al-Za'areer , Bandar Naffaa Alhumaidi , Khulud Ahmad Rezq , Amal Ali Alasmari , Amal Ali Alharbi , Hilana Ahmad Al-Kharouf (2025). Factors Associated with Breast Self-Examination Awareness and Knowledge among Female Students in Saudi Nursing Colleges: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. Universal Journal of Public Health, 13(3), 627 - 641. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130311.