Awareness and Practice of Breast Self-examination among Korean Women: Results from a Nationwide Survey

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the current status of the awareness and practice of breast self-examination (BSE) among Korean women. Materials and Methods: The study population was derived from the 2007 Korea National Cancer Screening Survey (KNCSS), an annual cross-sectional survey that uses a nationally representative random sample to investigate cancer-screening rates and related factors. A total of 1,255 Korean women aged ≥30 years participated in this study. Results: Of all participants, 88.0% reported that they had heard of BSE. The most common source of information on BSE was the media such as TV, radio and newspapers (87.0%). Recommendations from medical staff reached only 17.2%. The overall proportions of regular and irregular BSE were 13.2% and 16.1%, respectively. The main reason for not performing BSE was lack of knowledge about how to conduct the exam (31.7%). Conclusion: Despite a high level of awareness about BSE, only a small minority of women examine their breasts regularly in Korea.