Published on July 2025 | Medical Statistics

Mixed-Methods Analysis of Breast Self-Examination among 300 Women in Ilorin, Nigeria: Logistic Regression Modelling and Thematic Analysis of Screening Practice

Aim: Breast cancer remains the leading malignancy among Nigerian women, with late-stage diagnosis contributing to high mortality rates. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a crucial early detection strategy in resource-limited settings, such as Nigeria, where access to mammography is limited. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of BSE among women in Ilorin, Kwara State, to identify barriers and predictors of regular screening. Study Design: A community-based, cross-sectional mixed-methods study combining quantitative surveys (n=250) with qualitative in-depth interviews (n=50) was conducted. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria, between March and May 2025. Methodology: A multistage random sampling technique selected 250 women for quantitative surveys, while purposive sampling recruited 50 participants for qualitative interviews. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides, focusing on socio-demographic factors, BSE knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 25, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative transcripts. Results: Only 34.0% of participants correctly defined BSE, and 18.8% practised it monthly. Tertiary education (OR: 2.45, p = 0.004) and contact with health workers (OR: 2.12, p = 0.012) significantly predicted regular BSE. While 68.4% of participants recognised a painless lump as a potential symptom, 18.8% of them performed BSE monthly, with forgetfulness (36.8%) and lack of knowledge (45.6%) cited as major barriers. Qualitative insights highlighted structural challenges such as lack of privacy and limited access to healthcare professionals; and also cultural misconceptions, forgetfulness, and lack of privacy as key barriers. Conclusion: Despite moderate awareness, BSE practice remains low among the 300 women studied in Ilorin due to cultural, educational, and structural barriers. Interventions should prioritise community health worker training, low-literacy education tools, and culturally sensitive campaigns to improve early detection.