Abstract
Background and aims: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with an increasing incidence. Given the importance of early diagnosis in the control and treatment of breast cancer, as well as the simplicity and low cost of breast self-examination (BSE) as a screening method, this study was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of students at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz regarding breast self-examination. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 400 female students aged 20 years and above from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, selected through cluster random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of demographic information, as well as knowledge, practice, and attitude scales. Results: The mean age of the participants was 22.75 (± 3.029) years. The majority of participants had low knowledge and practice, and held negative attitudes toward breast self-examination. Only 10% of participants had received formal training in BSE. A significant negative correlation was found between practice and knowledge among individuals with a history of breast disease in first-degree relatives (r = -0.586, p-value = 0.001). Conclusion: The study revealed low levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding breast self-examination. Therefore, planning and implementing educational programs about breast cancer and its screening methods are necessary.