Table 3.
Knowledge of and perceptions about breast cancer in 120 women in Buea, Cameroon
| Knowledge/Perception | Frequency | % |
|---|---|---|
|
Knowledge of breast cancer’s existence |
120 |
100.00 |
|
Perceived causes of Breast Cancer |
|
|
| Exposure to a wide range of cancer causing agents |
64 |
53.33 |
| A family history of breast cancer |
29 |
24.17 |
| Exposure to x-rays before 30 years of age |
22 |
18.33 |
| Overweight after menopause |
12 |
10.00 |
| Prolonged and early use of oral contraceptives |
16 |
13.33 |
| Oestrogen replacement therapy |
14 |
11.67 |
| Witchcraft |
12 |
10.00 |
|
Perceived Risk factors for Breast Cancer |
|
|
| Excessive alcohol consumption |
24 |
20.00 |
| Excessive cigarette smoking |
40 |
33.33 |
| Inactivity and sedentary lifestyle |
23 |
19.17 |
| Prolonged use of dark hair dyes |
15 |
12.50 |
| High animal fat diet |
18 |
15.00 |
| Consumption of milk products from cows injected with genetically engineered hormones |
26 |
21.67 |
|
Perception that Breast cancer can be prevented |
114 |
95.00 |
|
Perceived methods of preventing Breast cancer |
|
|
| Dieting |
30 |
25.00 |
| Exercise |
24 |
20.00 |
| Vaccination |
16 |
13.33 |
| Breast examination |
44 |
36.67 |
|
Perception that Breast cancer can be treated |
84 |
70.00 |
|
Perceived methods of treating breast cancer |
|
|
| Medically |
43 |
35.83 |
| Traditionally |
11 |
9.17 |
| Spiritually | 30 | 25.00 |