Predictors of breast self-examination behavior in housewives based on trans-theoretical model

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer among women. Monthly breast Self-Examination is an important screening strategy for early detection of breast cancer, but few women do this. The purpose of this study was to determine predictors of breast self-examination behavior in housewives based on the trans-theoretical model. This descriptive-analytic study was incorporated 450 housewives aged between 20 to 40 years old referring to health centers in Birjand. Sampling was through the Stratified Sampling method. Data collection was carried out through a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information and dimensions of the meta-theory model and knowledge questions whose validity and reliability were confirmed. The data were analyzed by SPSS 19 software and analyzed by multivariate logistic regression and Pearson correlation coefficient test. Mean age of the housewives was 30.75±5.24 years. As regarding the stages of transition in breast self-examination (BSE) behavior, 32.9% were in the pre-contemplation stage, 19.6% in contemplation, 23.3% in preparedness, 18.2% in action, and 6% in maintenance stages. Regression analysis showed that self-efficacy, knowledge, and education level were predictors of BSE. The findings of the study showed that self-efficacy and knowledge were predictors of BSE. Therefore, BSE behavior can be reinforced via educational programs that aim at increasing awareness and self-efficacy among women.