Awareness About Female Cancers Among Healthcare Workers and Schoolteachers in Tobruk City : A KAP study

Abstract

Background: Female cancers, such as breast, ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers, are major global health issues due to their prevalence and the challenges in early detection and treatment, particularly in developing regions. This study investigates the awareness and attitudes towards female cancers among healthcare workers and schoolteachers in Tobruk City, Libya, with a focus on how literacy affects cervical cancer screening rates. Methods: A cross-sectional KAP descriptive study was conducted among working women in Tobruk using a pretested close-ended self-administered questionnaire in January 2024. Results: Significant differences in cancer knowledge, attitude, and practice were observed between healthcare workers and schoolteachers. Healthcare workers had a higher awareness that obesity increases breast cancer risk (71% vs. 45%). Both groups showed a good understanding of the hereditary nature and mortality risk of breast cancer. Positive attitudes towards cancer prevention were common, yet actual preventive practices, such as HPV vaccination and monthly breast self-examinations, were low across all groups. Conclusion: The level of cancer awareness was fairly good among working women.which reflected their educational status. Attitude and practice varied among the different occupations which did not correlate to educational level. Ethical Consideration: The others assert that all  procedures contributing to this work comply with the ethical standards of the endorsement of the  research center of the university.

Keywords: knowledge, attitude, practice, cancer cervix, Breast Self-Examination (BSE).