Characteristics and Knowledge of Women of Reproductive Age Regarding Early Detection Of Breast Cancer Through Breast Self-Examination Techniques at The Oepoi Community Health Cente (Puskesmas) Kupang

Yakoba Tafetin; Widia Ilmiah; Elisabet  Ndamalero

doi:10.63323/jkes.v15i02.276

Yakoba Tafetin Institut Teknologi, Sains, dan Kesehatan RS.DR. Soepraoen Kesdam V/BRW
Widia Shofa Ilmiah ITSK RS dr. Soepraoen
Elisabet Magi Ndamalero ITSK RS dr. Soepraoen

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63323/jkes.v15i02.276

Keywords: Adolescent, Attitude, Knowledge, SADARI, Breast Self-Examination

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women globally. Breast Self-Examination (BSE) has been promoted as an accessible, affordable, and effective early detection method—one that, if practiced from adolescence, can help reduce this risk. Nevertheless, adolescent girls are still observed to lack consistent BSE practices. A preliminary study at SMA Negeri 3 (Public Senior High School 3) in Kupang City revealed that many students do not fully understand the correct BSE procedure, and the practice is rarely performed. This study aims to examine how adolescent girls at SMA Negeri 3 Kupang—located within the service area of the Oepoi Community Health Center (Puskesmas)—perceive and respond to the importance of being proactive and attentive toward their own health.

Method: This study involved 94 students from grades 10 and 11 at SMA Negeri 3 Kupang, selected through consecutive sampling using an analytical cross-sectional design. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire that met validity and reliability criteria (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.80). Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test via SPSS software (version 30), with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05.

Results: The findings indicate that 58.5% of participants possessed good knowledge, 53.2% held a positive attitude, and 72.3% demonstrated good BSE practices. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between knowledge and behavior (p = 0.792); however, a significant correlation was found between attitude and behavior (p = 0.026). Respondents with a negative attitude were 2.14 times more likely to fail to perform BSE effectively.

Conclusion: There is no statistically significant correlation between knowledge and the practice of Breast Self-Examination (BSE). Consequently, improved health education is essential to raise awareness among adolescent girls regarding the importance of early breast cancer detection. Students at SMA Negeri 3 Kupang are very enthusiastic about participating in training and receiving instruction on how to perform SADARI (breast self-examination) to detect breast cancer at an early stage.