JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

A breast-awareness technique called breast self-examination (BSE) can assist women in detecting breast problems and seeking prompt medical referral. However, updated data on its national prevalence and related variables in Ethiopia remain limited. This study evaluated the use of BSE among Ethiopian women of reproductive age and the factors associated with it. To assess the magnitude of breast self-examination for breast cancer and its associated factors among women in Ethiopia The Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data from 2024–2025 were used in a cross-sectional analysis. There were 5,261 women between the ages of 15 and 49. Multilevel logistic regression analyzes and weighted descriptive statistics were used to identify variables related to BSE practice. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05, and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. Analysis In total, 17.85% of women (95% CI: 16.84–18.91) had engaged in BSE. Clinical breast examination by a medical expert was significantly related to BSE practice in the multivariable analysis (AOR = 6.09, 95% CI: 4.33–8.57). Compared to teenagers, women aged 20–34 years (AOR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.09–3.64) and 35–49 years (AOR = 3.35, 95% CI: 1.72–6.54) were more likely to practice BSE. AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.12–1.93 for primary education, 2.99, 95% CI: 1.99–4.50 for higher education, 1.75, 95% CI: 1.17–2.61 for urban residence, 1.60, 95% CI: 1.26–2.03 for media exposure, 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15–2.02 for internet use, and 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19–1.79 for employment Ethiopian women's BSE was minimal and varied based on healthcare-related and socio-demographic factors. Improving breast awareness and promoting prompt assessment of breast abnormalities may be achieved by strengthening healthcare-based counseling, accessible information channels, and breast health education.breast self-examination, associated factors, reproductive age women, Ethiopia, DHS

Objective:

To assess the magnitude of breast self-examination for breast cancer and its associated factors among women in Ethiopia

Methods:

The Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data from 2024–2025 were used in a cross-sectional analysis. There were 5,261 women between the ages of 15 and 49. Multilevel logistic regression analyzes and weighted descriptive statistics were used to identify variables related to BSE practice. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05, and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were presented.

Results:

In total, 17.85% of women (95% CI: 16.84–18.91) had engaged in BSE. Clinical breast examination by a medical expert was significantly related to BSE practice in the multivariable analysis (AOR = 6.09, 95% CI: 4.33–8.57). Compared to teenagers, women aged 20–34 years (AOR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.09–3.64) and 35–49 years (AOR = 3.35, 95% CI: 1.72–6.54) were more likely to practice BSE. AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.12–1.93 for primary education, 2.99, 95% CI: 1.99–4.50 for higher education, 1.75, 95% CI: 1.17–2.61 for urban residence, 1.60, 95% CI: 1.26–2.03 for media exposure, 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15–2.02 for internet use, and 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19–1.79 for employment

Conclusions:

Ethiopian women's BSE was minimal and varied based on healthcare-related and socio-demographic factors. Improving breast awareness and promoting prompt assessment of breast abnormalities may be achieved by strengthening healthcare-based counseling, accessible information channels, and breast health education.