Knowledge of Iranian Women about Warning Signs and Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

As a leading cause of mortality in Iran, breast cancer is a subject that entails investigation in terms of the knowledge of its early detection measures among Iranian women. This study was a cross-sectional exploratory one. Our sample included 755 adult women with no history of breast cancer selected by simple randomized method and assessed with a questionnaire including demographic data, warning signs and risk factors for breast cancer taking into account content validity and Test-re-test reliability. Results showed that participants had limited knowledge of warning signs and risk factors of breast cancer. These findings highlight the need to educate Iranian women to recognize risk factors to promote early identification of breast cancer even in the absence of symptoms. Also, healthcare providers should receive training on how to communicate breast health information effectively to Iranian women.