Breast Cancer Knowledge and Screening Barriers Among Female University Students of Pakistan

Breast cancer is a leading public health concern among low- and middle-income countries, primarily due to inadequate knowledge and lack of early detection practices. This study aimed to assess knowledge about the signs and symptoms, risk factors, and screening procedures for breast cancer, and barriers and perceptions of screening, among female university students of Pakistan to explore the relationship between socio-demographic variables and levels of knowledge about breast cancer. A total of 413 participants took part in a cross-sectional survey and completed a self-administrative online questionnaire. The results reflected an overall poor knowledge among female students, with only 3.9% demonstrating adequate knowledge about risk factors and 7.7% correctly recognizing 80% or more relevant signs and symptoms. Embarrassment (58.8%) and lack of confidence in communicating symptoms with healthcare providers (50.6%) were the most commonly reported barriers for breast cancer screening. Young age and income status below PKR 50,000 per month (OR = 3.47, 95%CI: 1.20–10.07 rel. to highest income) were significantly associated with poor breast cancer knowledge. In conclusion, this study reports sub-optimal breast cancer awareness levels in the target population, indicating the need for awareness programs and policy-driven interventions to reduce barriers, improve knowledge, and improve adherence to screening recommendations.