ArticleCureus2026
Awareness of Breast Cancer and Its Risk Factors Among Medical Students of North India.
Article in Cureus, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among women in India. Early detection and prevention are crucial, and medical students play a vital role in promoting awareness. Objective This study assessed how well undergraduate medical students in North India understand breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, screening, and treatment. Methods A cross-sectional study using a 30-item, semi-structured, self-developed questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms. The questions covered general awareness; biological, reproductive, and lifestyle risk factors; as well as screening practices. Students from different MBBS academic years participated. Responses were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.2, applying descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify associations, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results A total of 307 students responded, nearly two-thirds of whom were female. The most recognized key risk factors were family history (94.1%), smoking and alcohol consumption (86.3%), and childhood radiation exposure (87.3%). Awareness of biological risks such as early menstruation (71.7%) and late menopause (67.4%) was moderate. However, knowledge about reproductive risks was weaker: only 58% recognized nulliparity, 59% were aware of hormone replacement therapy as a risk factor, and 55% identified late first childbirth. Screening knowledge showed similar gaps. While 87% had heard of breast self-examination (BSE), only one-third knew the correct timing. Less than half were aware that mammography is advised in the 40s and 50s, and only 66% realized that breast cancer can occur without pain or a lump. Conclusion Undergraduate medical students in North India demonstrated moderate awareness of breast cancer, with notable gaps in understanding lifestyle-related risk factors and screening methods. Strengthening medical curricula and integrating breast cancer awareness programs are essential to enhance students' knowledge and their future role in community health promotion.
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