Background: Breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, very low-cost, non-invasive early detection method used to detect breast cancer at early stage. It should be done for all women older than 20 years. The aim of this study was to assess BSE practice and associated factors among female undergraduate students in Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted. Departments were selected from College of Business and Economics by using lottery method. A simple random sampling technique was used to select a total of 407 female students from each department. Data were collected by using structured self-administered and pretested questionnaire. Quantitative method was employed. Binary logistic regression and multiple logistic regressions were done to confirm association between variables.
Results: The finding of this study revealed that 87 (21.4%) of the study participants have practiced BSE. Of whom, 45 (51.7%) participants perform BSE every month and 9 (10.5%) of the study participants perform BSE at the right time, which is 2-3 days after menstruation. Family history of breast cancer, knowledge, and attitude of BSE were found to be significantly associated with BSE practice.
Conclusion: This study revealed that majority of study subjects did not practice BSE. So, It's recommended that the concerned bodies create awareness around BSE and train students on how to practice BSE.
Keywords: Addis Ababa University; breast cancer; breast self-examination; early detection method; female students; practice.