Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Investigating the relationship between religious orientation and spiritual intelligence with general health dimensions in women with breast cancer

. Mahnaz Noroozi; . Zahra Mohebbi‑Dehnavi

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2023, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the second leading causeof death among women. Religion and spiritual behaviors are effective strategies for maintaininghuman ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the second leading causeof death among women. Religion and spiritual behaviors are effective strategies for maintaininghuman health. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between religious orientationand spiritual intelligence with general health dimensions in women with breast cancer.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is a correlational study that was performed on50 women with breast cancer referred to medical centers affiliated to Isfahan University of MedicalSciences in 2020. Data were collected through questionnaires of religious orientation, spiritualintelligence, and general health. Data were analyzed by Spearman and regression tests.RESULTS: The results showed that religious orientation had a significant positive relationship withthe overall score of general health, but the components of religious orientation had a significantnegative relationship with the number of components of public health (p < 0.05). Spiritual intelligencealso had a significant positive relationship with general health. However, the number of componentsof spiritual intelligence has a significant negative relationship with the number of components ofgeneral health (p < 0.05).CONCLUSION: Considering the relationship between religious orientation and spiritual intelligencewith public health and considering educational programs based on spiritual intelligence and religiousorientation in this group of people can be an important step in promoting their general health.

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Developing the breast cancer risk prediction system using hybrid machine learning algorithms

. Mohammad R. Afrash; . Azadeh Bayani; . Mostafa Shanbehzadeh; . Mohammadkarim Bahadori; . Hadi Kazemi‑Arpanahi

Volume 12, Issue 7 , August 2022, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cause of cancer‑related deaths in womenglobally. Currently, many machine learning (ML)‑based predictive models have been established ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cause of cancer‑related deaths in womenglobally. Currently, many machine learning (ML)‑based predictive models have been established toassist clinicians in decision making for the prediction of BC. However, preventing risk factor formationeven with having healthy lifestyle behaviors or preventing disease at early stages can significantlylead to optimal population‑wide BC health. Thus, we aimed to develop a prediction model by using agenetic algorithm (GA) incorporating several ML algorithms for the prediction and early warning of BC.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The data of 3168 healthy individuals and 1742 patient case recordsin the BC Registry Database in Ayatollah Taleghani hospital, Abadan, Iran were analyzed. First, amodified hybrid GA was used to perform feature selection and optimization of selected features.Then, with the use of selected features, several ML algorithms were trained to predict BC. Afterward,the performance of each model was measured in terms of accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity,and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve metrics. Finally, a clinical decision support systembased on the best model was developed.RESULTS: After performing feature selection, age, consumption of dairy products, BC family history,breast biopsy, chest X‑ray, hormone therapy, alcohol consumption, being overweight, having children,and education statuses were selected as the most important features for prediction of BC. Theexperimental results showed that the decision tree yielded a superior performance than other MLmodels, with values of 99.3%, 99.5%, 98.26% for accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity, respectively.CONCLUSION: The developed predictive system can accurately identify persons who are at elevatedrisk for BC and can be used as an essential clinical screening tool for the early prevention of BC andserve as an important tool for developing preventive health strategies.

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Sexual health promotion interventional program for women undergoing breast cancer treatment: Protocol for a mix‑methods study

. Sanaz Zangeneh; . Mitra Savabi-Esfahani; . Fariba Taleghani; . Mohammad Reza Sharbafchi; . Mehrdad Salehi

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Women undergoing breast cancer treatment, especially those of reproductive age,experience sexual health challenges. The aim of this study is to design an interventional ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Women undergoing breast cancer treatment, especially those of reproductive age,experience sexual health challenges. The aim of this study is to design an interventional programfor promoting the sexual health of women undergoing breast cancer treatment.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a mixed qualitative‑quantitative exploratory study consistingof four phases. In the first phase, the needs and strategies for promoting sexual health of Iranianwomen with breast cancer in Isfahan city will be identified through a qualitative study. The patients willbe selected using purposive sampling method and the data will be collected through semi‑structuredinterviews. In the second phase of the study, the relevant literature will be reviewed. In the third phase,the initial version of the program will be designed based on the results of qualitative study and reviewof literature, the appropriate strategies are prioritized by the members of the panel of experts, andthen, the final interventional program is prepared. In the fourth phase, the designed interventionalprogram will be conducted as a quasi‑experimental study in two groups of intervention and controland the effectiveness of the program on sexual quality of life, sexual satisfaction, and sexual functionof women undergoing breast cancer treatment will be evaluated. The type of the intervention will beselected based on the results of the previous phases and the opinion of the expert panel.CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study are expected to contribute to the design of an interventionalprogram based on the needs of women undergoing breast cancer treatment and promote health andmeet the sexual health needs of breast cancer patients.

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Breast cancer awareness’s and attitude among regular health‑care users versus irregular in a sample of Kurdish women in the West of Iran

. Zahra Rastad; . Marzieh Kaboudi; . Nematollah Shiri

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: It is universally acknowledged that strengthen the participation rate in breastcancer (BC) screening can find cancer in its earlier stages. The aim of this study was to ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: It is universally acknowledged that strengthen the participation rate in breastcancer (BC) screening can find cancer in its earlier stages. The aim of this study was to determine theeffect of regular visits to the health centers on women’s knowledge and attitude about BC screening.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a cross‑sectional study, data were collected from 380 womenidentified with Kurdish background, who were registered in health care centers of Islamabad‑e Gharbduring January and February 2017. The subjects were divided into two regular and irregular groupsbased on the quantity of presence in health centers. Data on women’s awareness and attitude aboutBC screening were collected by a trained interviewer using a structured questionnaire. Bivariateanalysis, analysis of variance, and independent sample t‑test were used to see the mean differenceswithin the groups. The level of confidence was set at 0.05 significant.RESULTS: Women were representative of four health‑care centers of the city, mainly ≤39 yearsold  (73.9%), married  (96.3%), with high school education  (44.2%) characteristics. The totalmean  ±  standard deviation of awareness score about BC was 6.03  ±  3.90. In total, 19.2% ofparticipants had poor  (<2.13), 64.2% had an average  (2.13–9.93), and 16.6% had good  (˃9.93)awareness about BC. The results showed that the level of knowledge and attitude about BC screeningwas significantly different between regular and irregular groups (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: An important message from this study is the need for improved and coordinatedBC education for all social classes of women. It is necessary to discover ways to encourage womenwith academic education to visit health centers regularly during interventional studies.

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The effects of educational intervention on breast self‑examination and mammography behavior: Application of an integrated model

. Asiyeh Pirzadeh; . Sakine Ansari; . Parastoo Golshiri

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and it is thesecond leading cause of mortality among cancers in women and a major health issue in developedcountries. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and it is thesecond leading cause of mortality among cancers in women and a major health issue in developedcountries. Although there are simple and effective screening methods, just minority of women usethem. Given the high prevalence of breast cancer in Isfahan women and the low prevalence ofscreening behavior, the present study aimed to determine the impact of theory‑based educationalintervention on breast self‑examination (BSE) behavior and mammography.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present experimental study was conducted on 93 women referredto comprehensive health centers in Isfahan through convenience sampling, and by this way 46 womenwere included in the control group and 47 in the intervention group. Data collection was done bya valid and reliable questionnaire. Furthermore, educational interventions were performed for theintervention group in three sessions. Furthermore, the data were completed in the intervention groupbefore, immediately after, and 3 months after intervention and before and 3 months after interventionin the control group. The data were analyzed by SPSS (16); and paired t‑test and repeated measuretest were used for analysis in the intervention group and also independent t‑test and paired t‑testwere employed to analyze data of the control group.RESULTS: The results showed significant changes in perceived benefit constructs (P = 0.023),knowledge (P < 0.001), self‑efficacy (P < 0.001), and behavioral intention regarding BSE (P = 0.035)in the intervention group over time, but changes were not significant in both perceived susceptibilityand severity in the intervention group. As far as mammography behavior is concerned, only theperceived benefit construct in the intervention group had significant changes. In terms of the screeningbehavior, only BSE behavior significantly changed before and after intervention.CONCLUSION: The study showed that theory‑based education by applying of constructs suchas perceived benefits and self‑efficacy and intention for BSE model could promote breast cancerscreening behavior such as BSE. Therefore, it is suggested that health educators utilize educationaltexts based on these constructs to increase their influence on individuals via screening behaviorfor breast cancer.

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Determinants of mammography screening in Tehranian women in 2018 based on the health belief model: A cross‑sectional study

. Masoumeh Rezaeimanesh; . Mahnaz Solhi; . Farbod Ebadi Fard Azar; . Homeira Sajjadi; . Hassan Rafiey; . Farhad Nosrati Nejad; . Mohammad Ali Mohammadi Gharehghani3; . Marzieh Najafi; . Sayedeh Mahboobeh Hosseini; . Salah Eddin Karimi

Volume 11, Issue 3 , March 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. Mammographyis the most sensitive and important method for screening and early diagnosis of breast cancer.Considering ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. Mammographyis the most sensitive and important method for screening and early diagnosis of breast cancer.Considering the importance of using mammography in breast cancer screening, this study wasperformed to evaluate mammographic determinants.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the cross‑sectional study, we surveyed 985 women over 40 years inTehran concerning demographic characteristics: age, socioeconomic status, a problem in the breast,alcohol use, drug use, and health belief model. Logistic regression was used to identify determinantfactors associated with mammography performance.RESULTS: The results of this study showed that 42.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 38, 45)participant performed mammography at least once during their lifetime. Age (odds ratio [OR] = 4.252;95% CI = 2.041–8.857); housing situation (OR = 1.706; 95% CI = 1.178–2.469); having breastproblems (OR = 5.224; 95% CI = 3.501–7.795); socioeconomic status (OR = 1.855; 95%CI = 1.035–3.325); family income level (OR = 1.998; 95% CI = 1.028–3.884); alcoholconsumption (OR = 2.676; 95% CI = 1.344–5.328); smoking (OR = 2.824; 95% CI = 1.418–5.623);self‑efficacy (OR = 1.935; 95% CI = 1.242–3.015); perceived barriers (OR = 2.017; 95%CI = 1.348–3.019); self‑care (OR = 4.901; 95% CI = 3.152–7.620); perceived susceptibility (OR = 1.971;95% CI = 1.271–3.057) and perceived severity (OR = 1.830; 95% CI = 1.170–2.860) weremammography behaviors determinants.CONCLUSION: The findings indicated that the rate of mammography screening among Tehranianwomen is low and highlights the need for developing a comprehensive national breast cancer controlprogram, which should be considered as the priority for health‑care providers. Furthermore, theidentification of these factors can help to design an appropriate educational intervention that focuseson the benefits of mammography screening.

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Breast cancer screening behavior and its associated factors in female employees in South Khorasan

. Zoya Tahergorabi; . Mahyar Mohammadifard; . Fatemeh Salmani; . Mitra Moodi

Volume 11, Issue 3 , March 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a preventable disease, using three secondary preventive methodsof mammography, clinical breast examination (CBE), and breast self‑examination (BSE) that ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a preventable disease, using three secondary preventive methodsof mammography, clinical breast examination (CBE), and breast self‑examination (BSE) that canlead to early detection of breast cancer. This study was designed to assess breast cancer screeningbehavior and its associated factors in females employed in South Khorasan.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this analytic‑descriptive study, 2256 female personnel ofgovernmental organizations were investigated in Birjand city in 2016–2017. The data collection toolwas a three‑part questionnaire: sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge about breast cancerscreening methods plus women’s performance, and stage of change regarding screening behaviorsof mammography, CBE, and BSE. The data were analyzed by SPSS 16 and one‑way analysisvariance, Tukey’s post hoc, and multiple logistic regression model statistical tests.RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation score of knowledge of the women was 3.45 ± 1.5. Therewas a significant difference of the mean score of knowledge between the single and married (P = 0.03)and age group (P = 0.04). The stage action of mammography, CBE, and BSE was 6.8%, 12.3%,and 16.8%, respectively. Logistic regression model showed that variables such as age and familyhistory of breast cancer were highly significant related to mammography and also CBE. Knowledgewas also highly significant in mammography, CBE, and BSE. Education level in CBE, marital statusin BSE and mammography, and job in BSE were also significant (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals insufficient knowledge of female workers about breast cancerand the negative influence of low knowledge on the practice of breast cancer screening behavior.Therefore, the establishment and maintenance of regular educational courses for female employeesis essential.

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Self‑care behaviors in high‑risk women for breast cancer: A randomized clinical trial using health belief model education

. Maryam Damghanian; . Habibollah Mahmoodzadeh; . Zohreh Khakbazan; . Behjat Khorsand; . Mohadese Motaharinezhad

Volume 10, Issue 10 , October 2020, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Iranian women. The number of peoplewith this disease is increasing across the world. Positive family history is one of the risk ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Iranian women. The number of peoplewith this disease is increasing across the world. Positive family history is one of the risk factors fordeveloping breast cancer. However, early detection is the main method to fight this disease. Thisstudy was conducted to examine the effect of education based on the health belief model (HBM) onself‑care behaviors among first‑degree relatives of patients with breast cancer.METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted in 2016 on 80 women in Tehran city, Iran. Data werecollected using a three‑part questionnaire regarding demographic data, the HBM, and self‑carebehaviors. The educational program based on the HBM was held in 4 ninety‑minute training sessionsthrough lectures, group discussions, question and answer, image presentations, and PowerPointpresentations. The questionnaires were completed before and 2 months following the interventionby intervention and control groups. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statisticsthrough the SPSS16 software.RESULTS: The mean score of the HBM constructs before the intervention in the groups had nostatistically significant differences (P > 0.05). Eight weeks after the intervention, the mean score of theconstructs of the HBM in the intervention group significantly increased and a statistically significantincrease in the mean score of self‑care in the intervention group compared to the preinterventionwas found, so that the self‑care behavior score in the intervention group was 0.69 ± 0.09 before theintervention and was changed to 0.74 ± 0.09 after the intervention (P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that education based on the HBM was effective in promotingself‑care behaviors among first‑degree relatives of breast cancer patients. Therefore, educationbased on HBM may have an important implication for breast cancer prevention in Iran.

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Association between health literacy and adopting preventive behaviors of breast cancer in Iran

. Rahman Panahi; . Peyman Namdar; . Fatemeh Samiei Siboni; . Somayeh Fallah; . Mohammad Anbari; . Leila Dehghankar; . Leili Yekefallah; . Mahya Shafaei

Volume 10, Issue 9 , September 2020, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Health literacy plays an important role in adopting preventive behaviors. Consideringthe relatively high prevalence of breast cancer in women, this study aimed to assess ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Health literacy plays an important role in adopting preventive behaviors. Consideringthe relatively high prevalence of breast cancer in women, this study aimed to assess the associationbetween health literacy and adopting the preventive behavior of breast cancer in Iran.METHODS: This was a descriptive, cross‑sectional study, in which 375 female students at ImamKhomeini International University in Qazvin in the academic year of 2018–2019 were selected througha stratified random sampling method. Demographic and background questionnaire, the standardquestionnaire of Health Literacy for Iranian Adults in addition to another questionnaire for measuringbreast cancer preventive behaviors, were used for collecting data. Data were analyzed using SPSS22 using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.RESULTS: The mean of the breast cancer preventive behaviors and health literacy were 8.92 ±1.82 out of 16 and 70.80 ± 12.49 out of 100. Regression results showed that there was a statisticallysignificant association between the adoption of breast cancer preventive behaviors and physicalactivity (P < 0.001) and health literacy (P < 0.018). Accordingly, the chance for adopting the preventivebehaviors in good level among students with rare and without physical activity was 0.105 and0.100 times, respectively, more than students who had been doing physical activity on a daily basis.Moreover, the same chance among students with adequate and very adequate health literacy was1.802 and 2.169 times more than students with inadequate health literacy.CONCLUSION: The results indicated that students with lower levels of health literacy and lessphysical activity had shown less tendency to adopt preventive behaviors of breast cancer. Therefore,special attention should be paid to health literacy (HL), particularly physical activity, application ofhealth information, and assessment in students when designing educational programs to preventbreast cancer.

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Knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and methods for its early detection among the primary health‑care workers in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

. Vikas Fotedar; . Shailee Fotedar; . Purnima Thakur; . Siddarth Vats; . Anup Negi; . Lalit Chanderkant

Volume 9, Issue 12 , December 2019, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is an increasing health problem in India. Screening for early detectionshould lead to a reduction in mortality from the disease. Majority of the population, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is an increasing health problem in India. Screening for early detectionshould lead to a reduction in mortality from the disease. Majority of the population, especially in ruralareas, contact health‑care system through primary health‑care workers.AIM: To know the knowledge of breast cancer risk factors and methods for its early detection amongthe primary health‑care workers in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive cross‑sectional study questionnaire study wasconducted among primary health‑care workers (both males and females) in Shimla district,Himachal Pradesh. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16. The statisticaltests used were t‑test, ANOVA, and Fisher’s exact test. P = 0.05 was considered statisticallysignificant.RESULTS: Out of a total of 120 patients, there were 46 males (38.3%) and 74 females (61.7%).The mean age of the population was 48.5 ± 5.3 years, with a range of 25 and 57 years. The meanknowledge score percent of the present population was 71.04 ± 18.3. The mean knowledge scorewas higher among males (73.9 ± 19.8) as compared to females (69.2 ± 17.2). Approximately 43.3%of the participants had very good knowledge about risk factors followed by 31.7% having excellentknowledge, 20% having good knowledge, and 5% having poor knowledge.CONCLUSION: The overall mean knowledge percent about breast cancers among primaryhealth‑care workers in this study was very good, slightly higher among males and postgraduates,but to make it universal, reinforcement of educational programs can be planned for them.

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Predictors of mammography based on Health Belief Model in Khorramabad women

. Zahra Khazir; . Mohammad Ali Morrowati Sharifabad1; . Ali Akbar Vaezi; . Behnaz Enjezab; . Hossein Fallahzadeh; . Fatemeh Yari

Volume 9, Issue 9 , September 2019, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Health beliefs play an important role in people’s willingness to participate inhealth‑promoting behaviors. Given the role of beliefs in women’s function and ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Health beliefs play an important role in people’s willingness to participate inhealth‑promoting behaviors. Given the role of beliefs in women’s function and the importance ofthe benefits of mammogram, and because the predictors of a behavior are a major prerequisite tocodification of an effective prevention program, the present study was conducted with the aim ofpredicting mammography based on Health Belief Model (HBM) in women in Khorramabad.Materials and Methods: In this cross‑sectional study, 262 women referring to health centers inKhorramabad, Lorestan province, in 2018, were selected by randomly sampling. The data collectiontool was a four‑part questionnaire including demographic information, knowledge on breast cancerand mammography, Champion’s Health Belief Model, and Champion’s Self‑Efficacy Questionnairefor Mammography. Validity and reliability of the tool were investigated and confirmed. Data wereanalyzed by version 16 of SPSS software using descriptive statistics, Chi‑squared test, and multiplelogistic regression.RESULTS: The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants was 49.26 (±7.79) years.Seventy‑nine (30.85%) of the 262 participants reported mammography. Constructs’ sensitivity,benefits, barriers, and perceived self‑efficacy were significantly different in terms of performingmammography (P < 0.05). Participants with a history of breast cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 11.18, 95%confidence interval [CI] = [3.73–33.46]) had lower perceived barriers (OR = 3.54, 95% CI= [1.77–7.09]),were more likely to undergo mammography than women with no family history of breast cancer, andhad moderate‑to‑high perceived barriers (P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that health managers are required to pay moreattention to training and promoting screening methods. Understanding the barriers to mammography inwomen by managers can help design and implement effective programs that enhance mammographyin women.

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Developing a community‑based breast cancer risk prediction tool for resource‑poor settings

. Divya Pillai; . Shaikh Shah Hossain; . Vijay Kumar Chattu

Volume 9, Issue 6 , June 2019, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With an estimation of every two women newly diagnosed with breast cancer,one dies. It is accounted that 1 in 28 women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime.Developing ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With an estimation of every two women newly diagnosed with breast cancer,one dies. It is accounted that 1 in 28 women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime.Developing a risk prediction tool by assessing the prevalence of known risk factors in the communitywill help public health intervention.METHODOLOGY: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 18–64‑year‑old women to gatherthe prevalence of known breast cancer risk factors, through a community survey (sample survey). Inthis multistage random number‑based cluster sampling study, the results were compiled, collated, andanalyzed in rates and proportions. Statistical conclusions were made using spreadsheets (Microsoft)and the values were converted into ordinal values using modified Likert scale and median was usedto estimate central values. The estimated prevalence of these known risk factors was re‑assorted foranalysis and these re‑assorted data were categorized into range of values across the communities.The internal validity of the survey questionnaire was measured using Cronbach’s alpha (α).RESULTS: The analysis of 558 participants was performed for the known risk factors for breast cancerincluding participant’s age, age at menarche, marriage, first childbirth, menopause, family history ofbreast cancer and benign breast disease, history of abortion, and body mass index. Based on theestimated prevalence of these risk factors, a community‑based risk prediction tool was developedwith Cronbach’s α score of medium internal validity.CONCLUSIONS: The risk assessment tool has collated most of the risk factors of breast cancerthat are capable of being measured at community level. The survey findings concluded that thecommunity under survey was bearing moderate risk for breast cancer for women.

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Using information sources by breast cancer women treated with mastectomy

. Masoomeh Latifi; . Hatav Ghasemi Tehrani; . Nader Alishan Karami; . Nilofar Barahmand; . Leili Allahbakhshian Farsani

Volume 9, Issue 3 , March 2019, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Awareness of sources of information of mastectomy patients has an important rolein accessibility of reliable health information sources, thus, when they get information, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Awareness of sources of information of mastectomy patients has an important rolein accessibility of reliable health information sources, thus, when they get information, they can beeffective in the treatment and self‑care. The present study aimed to identify the sources of informationused by women underwent mastectomy.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The current practical research methodology was qualitative, andresearch method was conventional qualitative content analysis was performed on 17 patients withbreast cancer undergone mastectomy. The sample targeted two hospitals were selected based oncriteria of Shaeid Mohammadi and the Persian Gulf and Omid Central chemotherapy in BabdarAbbas. Data were collected by face‑to‑face semi‑structured interviews were conducted in winter2015. Qualitative content analysis of data was performed at the same time of data collection.RESULTS: Three themes were seemed (medical, interpersonal, and media) sources for explainingthe sources of information searching. Subcategories derived from the content of medical (physicians,surgeons, and health workers of health facility centers), interpersonal sources (Family and friends,peers), and media sources (printed, electronic, and Internet).CONCLUSION: Given the importance of information on women underwent mastectomy, and theirpriority in the use of medical sources, necessitates more attention of health system managers andplanners in providing essential information and their accessibility.

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The adequate breast cancer knowledge assessment: A cross‑sectional study done among nonmedical women of Karachi

. Sarah Arif; . Qamaruddin Baloch; . Farhan Zaheer; . Rehmat Agheem; . Madiha Ariff; . Mushtaq Ahmed

Volume 8, Issue 12 , December 2018, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading causeof cancer death in females’ worldwide. Pakistan has higher incidence of the disease than ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading causeof cancer death in females’ worldwide. Pakistan has higher incidence of the disease than theneighboring countries and one in every nine Pakistani women suffers from breast cancer which isone of the highest incidence rate in Asia. Numerous risk factors such as nulliparity, family history,genetic mutations, increasing age, early menarche, and late menopause are associated with thedevelopment of breast cancer. Lack of awareness and the preexisting myths regarding this diseasehave led to the detection of breast cancer at a later stage.OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study is to determine the frequency of adequate breastcancer knowledge and its level among nonmedical women of Karachi coming to attend generalsurgery outpatient clinics.METHODS: A cross‑sectional Study was conducted in Outpatient Clinics, Department of GeneralSurgery, Civil Hospital, Karachi. The sample of 250 females with nonmedical background was gatheredfrom December 27, 2016 to June 26, 2017. Adequate breast cancer knowledge was divided intothree criteria such as poor, fair, and good knowledge. Chi‑square test was applied. P ≤ 0.05 wasconsidered as statistically significant.RESULTS: The mean age was 35.63 ± 9.56 years. Mean knowledge score was 5.24 ± 2.92.Overall, 42% of participants were found with adequate breast cancer knowledge whereas 58% of theparticipants had inadequate knowledge. Based on the study questionnaire, 38% had poor knowledge,40.4% had fair knowledge, and 21.6% had good knowledge. Significant association was observedwith age, monthly family income, education status, and occupation.CONCLUSION: The results showed lack of adequate knowledge. A high proportion (58%) ofnonmedical females had inadequate knowledge about breast cancer.

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Health information seeking behavior of female breast cancer patients

. Zahra Ghazavi‑Khorasgani; . Hasan Ashrafi‑Rizi; . Faribprz Mokarian; . Mina Afshar

Volume 8, Issue 11 , November 2018, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND AND AIM: One of the methods for involving breast cancer patients in their owntreatment is to provide them with credible and simple information. To provide this information, ...  Read More BACKGROUND AND AIM: One of the methods for involving breast cancer patients in their owntreatment is to provide them with credible and simple information. To provide this information, it isfirst necessary to investigate health information‑seeking behaviors of these patients including theirinformation needs, sources, barriers, and attitudes regarding health information.METHODS: This is an applied type study using survey method. The statistical population includedfemale breast cancer patients referring to Seyed‑Al‑Shohada Hospital of Isfahan (60 patients). Datagathered through questionnaire.RESULTS: “Self‑care,” “emotional‑psychological support information,” and “treatment lengthand chance of relapse” were the most sought‑after health information by patients. “Brochure andcatalog provided by hospital,” “other cancer patients,” and “physicians and nurses” were the mostimportant information sources. “High cost of information sources,” “Lack of response from treatmentpersonal (physicians and nurses),” and “lack or trust in website information” were the most importantinformation‑seeking barriers. Regarding attitude, participants stated that health information can helpthem in areas such as “controlling their conditions,” “adapting to their conditions,” “stress and anxietycontrol,” and “preforming their social roles” and “hopefulness.”CONCLUSION: Credible and relevant information can help patients to seek their treatment withrenewed motivation and energy. This information should be provided for the patients from varioussources such as brochures and websites according to their information‑seeking abilities and healthliteracy with low cost. The knowledge of library and medical information experts can be used forevaluation and creation of easy‑to‑understand information sources.

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Breast self‑examination awareness and practices in young women in developing countries: A survey of female students in Karachi, Pakistan

. Ayesha Ahmed; . Ibrahim Zahid; . Zoya Fatima R Ladiwala; . Rija Sheikh; . Amjad S Memon

Volume 8, Issue 7 , July 2018, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a leading cause of deaths worldwide. In Pakistan, one in everynine women develops breast cancer some time in her life. This high incidence of breast cancer ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a leading cause of deaths worldwide. In Pakistan, one in everynine women develops breast cancer some time in her life. This high incidence of breast cancer andthe poor socioeconomic conditions of Pakistan make breast self‑examination (BSE) the best tool forthe prevention and early diagnosis of breast cancer. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assessthe knowledge, attitude, and practice of BSE among female college students of Karachi, Pakistan.METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted on 1000 students from June to December 2016.Data were collected using a pre-piloted questionnaire, and SPSS (version 20) was used for dataanalysis. Chi‑square test was used to determine the significance of the difference in knowledgeand attitude among participants who had performed BSE and those who had not. A P < 0.05 wasconsidered statistically significant.RESULTS: The overall response rate was 90.9%. Although 71.4% of the women knew what BSEwas, only 33.1% had performed it. Majority of the participants considered that BSE is important inthe early detection of breast cancer. With 59.7% of the population having an adequate amount ofknowledge, 87.2% had a positive attitude toward BSE. A medical background was found to be asignificant predictor for adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward BSE.CONCLUSION: Despite a positive attitude found among the population toward BSE, its knowledgeand practice were inadequate. Educational interventions are required in Pakistan to encourageyoung women to perform BSE regularly so that breast abnormalities can be detected early on andmortalities can be minimized.

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Effect of self‑care education on the quality of life in patients with breast cancer

. Hooman Shahsavari; . Pegah Matory; . Zahra Zare; . Fariba Taleghani; . Mohammad Akbari Kaji

Volume 5, Issue 5 , December 2015, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Context: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Iranian women. Although survivalrate of breast cancer patients has been increased some distresses affect the patients’ qualityof ...  Read More Context: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Iranian women. Although survivalrate of breast cancer patients has been increased some distresses affect the patients’ qualityof life negatively. the effectiveness of self‑care education, particularly in the socioculturalcontext of Iran, has not been adequately investigated. Aims: This study aims at evaluatingthe effectiveness of nurse‑led self‑care education program on quality of life in this patients.Settings and Design: A controlled trial as pretest and posttest design was conducted inSayyed‑Al‑Shohada Hospital in Isfahan in 2012. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients withbreast cancer were assigned to either the nurse‑led self‑care education program (n = 30),or to routine care (n = 30). Quality of life was measured at the time of recruitment and also3 months after the intervention by the instrument of the National Medical Center and BeckmanResearch Institute. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 16)software using T‑independent, T‑paired and 2, and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: Theintervention group had significantly greater improvements in quality of life status (P < 0.05).Furthermore, self‑care education caused a significant increase in the quality of life score relatedto physical (P = 0.00), psychological (P = 0.00), social (P = 0.00), and emotional (P = 0.00)dimensions. Conclusions: Quality of life in patients with breast cancer can be improved byparticipating in a nurse‑led self‑care education program. It is suggested that self‑care educationto be added to the routine nursing care delivered to these patients.

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An investigation of the effects of therapeutic touch plan on acute chemotherapy‑induced nausea in women with breast cancer in Isfahan, Iran, 2012–2013

. Pegah Matourypour; . Zahra Zare; . Valiolah Mehrzad; . Amir Musarezaie; . Mojtaba Dehghan; . Zohre Vanaki

Volume 5, Issue 4 , August 2015, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Nausea is the worst and most prevalent chemotherapy‑induced complicationexperienced by 70–80% of patients despite mediation therapy. Reduction of nausea is one ...  Read More Introduction: Nausea is the worst and most prevalent chemotherapy‑induced complicationexperienced by 70–80% of patients despite mediation therapy. Reduction of nausea is one ofthe most important roles of oncologist nurses. Today, complementary therapies in additionto classic medicine, because of their lower costs, receive much attention. Nonetheless, theirsafety and effectiveness are not yet proven. The purpose of this research was to investigate theeffect of therapeutic touch plan as a complementary therapy on acute nausea in women withbreast cancer in 2012–2013 in Isfahan, Iran. Materials and Methods: A quasi‑experimental,single‑blind, randomized control trial with three groups (control, placebo and intervention) wasperformed at the Isfahan Seyedolshohada (AS) Teaching Hospital, Isfahan, in 2012–2013. Theintervention was therapeutic touch plan on women with breast cancer, with the three groupsreceiving the same medicine regimen. Information was recorded by a checklist after infusion ofchemotherapy drugs. Data analysis was performed by SPSS, ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests.Results: The ANOVA test showed that the therapeutic touch plan was significantly effective inreducing the duration of nausea compared with the control and placebo groups (P < 0.001).The Kruskal–Wallis test showed that the frequency of occurrence of nausea was also reducedin the intervention and placebo groups compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Thetherapeutic touch plan was significantly effective in delaying the onset of nausea comparedwith the control and placebo groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This research showed that thetherapeutic touch plan is effective in reducing acute chemotherapy‑induced nausea; thus,education and implementation of the therapeutic touch plan is proposed for clinical nurses.

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Positive changes after breast cancer: A qualitative study

. Masoud Bahrami; . Fariba Taleghani; . Marzeyeh Loripoor; . Alireza Yousefy

Volume 5, Issue 4 , August 2015, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  Introduction: Traumatic events such as breast cancer along with negative effects on patientsalso have positive effects. These cases have been studied less in Iran. Therefore, this studywas ...  Read More Introduction: Traumatic events such as breast cancer along with negative effects on patientsalso have positive effects. These cases have been studied less in Iran. Therefore, this studywas conducted with the aim of explanation of positive changes after breast cancer by using aqualitative approach. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2012 inone of the specialized centers for cancer affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences.In this study, it was interviewed with 19 women with breast cancer about positive changesafter cancer by using individual, open and deep methods. The interviews were analyzedwith conventional content analysis method. Results: The titles of the three major categorieswere included as behavioral changes to maintain and promote health (acquisition of healthinformation and adopting promoting health behaviors), spiritual development (attention to theGod and sense of meaning in life, revising the values and priorities, strengthening moral andbehavioral traits) and personal growth and flourish (feeling empowerment, confidence andefforts to achieve the goals and desires). These three categories have led to emerge themesin this study as the “Awakening after cancer.” Conclusions: The results of this study indicatedpositive changes after breast cancer. Considering such changes while providing care andconsulting to patients with breast cancer in addition to facilitate and accelerate positive changeswill be prompted to provide care and proper and influential consulting to promote patient health.

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Application of joinpoint regression in determining breast cancer incidence rate change points by age and tumor characteristics in women aged 30–69 (years) and in Isfahan city from 2001 to 2010

. Zahra Fazeli Dehkordi; . Mehdi Tazhibi; . Shadi Babazade

Volume 4, Issue 5 , November 2014, , Pages 1-10

Abstract

  Background and Objectives: Breast cancer is a major threat to women’s health. Evaluationof the changes in trend of the incidence rate provides valuable information for the assessmentand ...  Read More Background and Objectives: Breast cancer is a major threat to women’s health. Evaluationof the changes in trend of the incidence rate provides valuable information for the assessmentand planning of development indicators of each country. The aim of the present study was toapply the JoinPoint regression model for determining changes in the trend of the breast cancerincidence rate in Isfahan. Materials and Methods: In this cross‑sectional study, 3640 womenwith breast cancer referring to oncology and radiotherapy departments of Seyed‑al‑Shohadaand Milad cancer treatment centers of Isfahan during 2001–2010 were studied and samplingwas not done. Joinpoint regression model was used to investigate the pattern of breastcancer incidence rate. Response and independent variables were the natural logarithm of theage‑standardized incidence rates and year of diagnosis of breast cancer, respectively, in whichvarious levels of cancer tumor characteristics (P < 0.05) were analyzed. Results: The incidencerates increased annually in the age groups of 40–44 years (6.2%), 45–49 years (5.3%), and55–59 years (5.3%). The trend of incidence rates in women with tumor size ≤2 cm (18.2%),well (moderately) differentiated tumor grade [8% (10.2%)], positive estrogen (progesterone)hormone receptor status [10.5% (6.9%)], and the proportion of positive lymph node to surgerynode ≤25% (nonsignificant) was upward. Conclusion: The trend of incidence rates with tumorsize ≤2 cm, well‑differentiated tumor grade, moderately differentiated tumor grade, and positiveestrogen and progesterone hormone receptors was upward. The pattern of breast cancer canhelp in cancer prevention and prognosis, and in selecting the best type of surgery.

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Effect of education on preventive behaviors of breast cancer in female teachers of guidance schools of Zahedan city based on health belief model

. Khadijah Kalan Farman Farma; . Zahra Jalili; . Iraj Zareban; . Mahnaz Shahraki Pour

Volume 4, Issue 4 , August 2014, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in females. Methods ofscreening are the best among early detection methods. The goal of this study is effect ofeducation ...  Read More Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in females. Methods ofscreening are the best among early detection methods. The goal of this study is effect ofeducation on preventive behaviors of breast cancer in female teachers of guidance schoolsof Zahedan city based on health belief model Materials and Methods: This study was asemi‑experimental, a kind of case‑control research. This study was carried on 240 femaleteachers in guidance schools, Zahedan city, in 2011‑2012 academic years with multi‑stagesampling. Data collection tool was a questionnaire that was used after confirmation of validityand reliability. Data were collected with questionnaire after analysis, educational interventionwith lecture, view video, group discussion, question and answer performed. Two month afterintervention, secondary evaluation was performed. Collected data with SPSS software andappropriate statistical tests like: Paired t‑test, independent t‑test, regression analysis, Chi‑squarewere analyzed. Results: Persons mean age in this study was 39.40(±7.4) years. In awarenessitem and health belief model constructs (awareness, perceived susceptibility, perceivedseriousness, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self‑efficiency, behavior) and also practice,paired t‑test showed significant difference among before and after education (P > 0.0001).In twogroups based on Chi‑square in level of education and married status, there were no significantdifferences. Also, regression analysis outcomes showed that perceived barriers had the mosteffect on behavior, and this construct could be predictor of preventive behaviors from breastcancer. Conclusions: The findings of this study could conclude that educational programsdesigned based on the health belief model have significant impact on improving preventivetreatment of breast cancer. Given the fact that Iran has a very high incidence of breast cancer,since Iranian women’s awareness level and performance specially research samples accordingto educational level (associate degree andhigher) and employment conditions asmodel for today girls and future mothers inbreast cancer screening before educationalintervention was very low. So, due to need,increasing women’s awareness in healthbelief model framework to promote preventivebehaviors is recommended.

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Hormonal and reproductive risk factors associated with breast cancer in Isfahan patients

. Mehdi Tazhibi; . Mohsen Dehghani; . Shadi Babazadeh; . Fariborz Makkarian; . Maryam Tabatabaeian; . Masoumeh Sadeghi; . Parisa Rezaei; . Mehri Faghihi

Volume 4, Issue 3 , June 2014, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among Iranian females;it is noteworthy that the condition of this type of cancer among Iranian women does notsignificantly ...  Read More Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among Iranian females;it is noteworthy that the condition of this type of cancer among Iranian women does notsignificantly differ from what has been reported from other countries. Considering theimportance of this issue, identification of the backgrounds factors and risk factors of thebreast cancer risk are highly needed. Therefore, the present study is aimed to comparethe risk factors of resident patients of Isfahan province, Iran, with accredited risk factors byother countries and also identify the importance of each factor in the incidence of cancer.Materials and Methods: The present work is a case-control study, which was conductedin 2011. In order to conduct the study, 216 women who had been clinically identified withbreast cancer were selected from Seiedo-Shohada Hospital, Isfahan, Iran, as the case group.Moreover, 41 healthy women who were the relatives of the selected patients (i.e., sisters andaunts) were selected as the control group. The data and information of the patients from1999 to 2010 were collected from either assessing the database system of the center for breastcancer research or interviewing the patients through phone. To analyze the data, multiplelogistic regression method was applied. Results: The range of age among selected individualsin this study was from 20-75 years old. The determinant factors for odds of breast cancerincluded in the applied multiple logistic regression model were the use of oral contraceptivepills (OCPs) (odds ratio [OR] =0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.04-0.75) as the protectivefactor, hormone replacement therapy (OR = 10.2, 95% CI = 1.18-88.89) and menopause atold age (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.11-2.12) as the risk factors. Furthermore, there was not seenany significant relationship between age, vocation, and marital status with odds of breastcancer in multiple model. Conclusion: Basedon the results, use of OCPs as protectivefactor, hormone replacement therapy, andmenopause at old age are identified as therisk factors in developing breast canceramong women. Influencing and modifiablefactors should be considered very importantin society based interventions and preventiveinterventions planning.

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The effects of breast cancer educational intervention on knowledge and health beliefs of women 40 years and older, Isfahan, Iran

. Mohsen Rezaeian; . Gholamreza Sharifirad; . Firoozeh Mostafavi; . Mitra Moodi; . Mohammad Hadi Abbasi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Breast cancer is an international health problem in the world over.Mammography screening behavior has critical role in early detection and decreasing ofits mortality. ...  Read More Introduction: Breast cancer is an international health problem in the world over.Mammography screening behavior has critical role in early detection and decreasing ofits mortality. Educational programs play an important role in promoting breast cancerscreening behaviors and women health. Health belief models (HBM) is the most commonmodels that have been applied in Mammography screening behaviors. The aim of thisstudy was to determine the effect of breast cancer screening education using HBM onknowledge and health beliefs in 40 years women and older. Materials and Methods: In thisPopulation‑based controlled trial, 290 women of 40 years and older were divided randomlyinto experimental and control groups. Health beliefs determined using the Persian versionof Champion’s health belief model scale (CHBMS). Questionnaires were completed beforeand 4 weeks after intervention. Four educational sessions were conducted each sessionlasting 90 min by lecturing, group discussion, showing slide and educational film basedon HBM constructs. The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS (version 18) and statisticaltest at the significant level of a = 0.05. Results: Mean scores of perceived susceptibility,perceived severity, perceived benefits, barriers and self‑efficacy of mammography andhealth motivation in the experimental group had significant differences in comparisonwith the control group after educational intervention (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The resultsof this study have confirmed the efficiency of educational intervention based on HBMin increasing of knowledge and health beliefs about breast cancer and mammographyscreening behavior. Hence, implementing appropriate educational programs with focuson benefits of Mammography in early detection of breast cancer and creating positivemotivation for health among women, can increase their practice of having mammographyscreening.

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Investigation of the age trends in patients with breast cancer and different sizes of tumors in Breast Cancer Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2001‑2010

. Mehdi Tazhibi; . Zahra Fazeli Dehkordi; . Shadi Babazadeh; . Maryam Tabatabaeian; . Parisa Rezaei; . Mehri Faghihi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women in the age rangeof 35‑55 years. Each year, one or two cases of breast cancer per 1000 women are diagnosedas new ...  Read More Background: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women in the age rangeof 35‑55 years. Each year, one or two cases of breast cancer per 1000 women are diagnosedas new cases. Despite the serious prognosis and high rate of morbidity, mortality, andpathogenicity, in the case of early diagnoses, the prognosis will be better. The aim of thisstudy was to investigate the age trends in breast cancer patients with different sizes of tumorsin Breast Cancer Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2001‑2010.Materials and Methods: The information in radiotherapy and oncology of Isfahan University ofMedical Sciences and Milad Hospital from 2001 to 2010 were coded and analyzed. Frequencyof patients’ age groups, tumor sizes and the year of cancer diagnosis were calculated.Correlation test was used for data analysis in statistical analysis in social science (SPSS)software version 18. Findings: Among the 3722 patients with breast cancer, the highestrelative frequency distribution, respectively was observed in the age of 40‑49 years (34.4%),50‑59 years (26.6%), 30‑39 years (17.7%), 60‑69 years (13.2%), 20‑29 years (2.5%), 70 yearsand older (5.2%) and less than 20 years. Relative frequency distribution of tumor sizes in avariety of 5 cm (T2) was with the frequency of 59.8%, and then 26% at 5 cm (T3), 10.5% at2 cm (T1), 3.1% at T4 and 0.6 at In‑situ, respectively. Conclusion: The investigation of agetrends showed that diagnosis rate of breast cancer increased from 2001 to 2004. It reached itshighest value in 2006 at the age range of 30‑39 years. Then, the trend has been downward, andit has continued to decline until 2010, whichcould be the result of the equipping screeningsystem and recording the malignant cases.85.8% of the examined tumors in T2 and T3group were visible and may be disturbing.Comparing the frequency distribution of theinfected population showed that the highestincidence of breast cancer diagnosis were inthe age range of 40‑49 years. It seems that aslong as the mass has not reached an obviouspalpable state, it has not been diagnosed.

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Comparison of satisfactions from mastectomy and Lump Ectome in breast cancer patients

. Mehdi Tazhibi; . heida Sarrafzadeh; . Fariborz Mokarian; . Shady Babazade; . Maryam Tabatabaeian; . Parisa Rezaei; . Mehri Faghihi; . Fariba Taleghani

Volume 4, Issue 1 , February 2014, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Introduction: The prevalence of breast cancer among women in compare to other types ofcancers in all over the world and in Iran is high. Mastectomy surgery is one of the commontreatments ...  Read More Introduction: The prevalence of breast cancer among women in compare to other types ofcancers in all over the world and in Iran is high. Mastectomy surgery is one of the commontreatments for these patients. Another method, which is less invasive, is Lumpectomy. Thisstudy comprised the satisfaction of patients under two types of surgery; Mastectomy andLumpectomy. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, two types of patients whichhad either, Mastectomy or Lumpectomy, were studied. Results: From 119 patients which studiedhere, 80 patients (66.7%) were treated by mastectomy and 39 patients (32.5%) were treatedunder lumpectomy. Two groups had not significant differences in duration between diagnosticand surgery, the number of lymph nodes involved and the number of lymph nodes removed.Lumpectomy patients had higher pain and numbness in 24 h, 1 week after surgery and at the timeof study than the other group. The observed difference was significant (P = 0.043). Discussion:It is implied in previous studies that patients under lumpectomy had more satisfaction thanpatients under mastectomy. However, no differences were observed in quality-of-life betweenthe two groups in some other studies. The differences between various studies might be for thesake of cultural variety and time interval between surgery and filling questionnaire.

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