ABSTRACT

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women and has the highest mortality rate among the women around the world. Early diagnosis of this cancer increases the survival of the patients. The aim of this study was to determine the predictor factors for breast self-examination (BSE) based on the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) among female healthcare workers in Hamadan University of Medical Sciences.

This analytical-descriptive study was conducted on 501 employed women in age range of 20-61 years old in Hamadan University of Medical Sciences in west of Iran during 2018. Participants in the study were random stratified sampling selected. Data collection tools were demographic information and the constructs of PMT. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and the logistic regression tests.

The results showed that only 9% of participants performed BSE regularly and monthly. The most important reason for lack of BSE was its triviality. Linear regression analysis showed that the structure of perceived threat appraisal is the predictor of the intention to perform BSE (R²=0.027). Moreover, the logistic regression analysis showed that the protection motivation construct was a strong predictor for BSE (R²=0.25).

The frequency of practice of BSE in female healthcare workers is low. Therefore, it is imperative to periodically emphasize the importance of early breast cancer diagnosis for them and the design of educational programs based on the PMT can increase the regular of BSE behavior.