Background: Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in India. Early detection plays a vital role in reducing mortality rates and improving the quality of life. Breast self-examination (BSE) is an easy and economical method for detecting any abnormalities. Nursing students play an important role as future healthcare professionals in educating people about breast cancer.
Objectives: This study was conducted to measure the knowledge and practices of BSE among the first year B.Sc. Nursing students and to establish the relationship between the two variables.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 first year B.Sc. Nursing students studying at SCB College of Nursing, Cuttack. Convenience sampling technique was used for data collection. Structured questionnaire and checklist were used for data collection. Inferential and descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Results: Findings revealed that 52.5% of the participants had insufficient knowledge about BSE and 68.75% had never performed BSE regularly. There exists a positive correlation (r= 0.42) between the scores on knowledge and practices.
Conclusion: There was a wide knowledge-practice gap found among nursing students. Recommendations include conducting workshops and practical sessions for the students.
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