Abstract

Previous research on the breast cancer awareness, attitude and screening practices has produced divergent results. This systematic review aimed to summarise evidence and to compare all existing evidence on the awareness of breast cancer, attitude and screening practices among women in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Overall, 40 articles were included in the final analysis. The search was limited to articles published in English between 2001 and 2014 were included in review.  Majority of the respondents in this review were aware of breast cancer as a disease entity. Electronic media and television (TV) were the leading sources of information on breast cancer in Nigeria, while use of leaflets and internet were unpopular in this regard.  The results of the study showed deficiency in screening practices even among those who were aware of the screening methods. Breast self-examination (BSE) was the most common breast screening practice among respondents followed by clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammography. The reasons provided for non-performance were fear of finding a lump and lack of awareness among others. Development of effective educational resources aimed at reducing barriers to breast screening practices and early detection to provoke change and to impact on social norms. Also, campaigns that couple information with other services are more likely to bring sustained changes in behaviour.

Key words: Breast cancer, awareness, attitude, screening practices.