A study on impact of education on awareness about breast cancer among rural women in thanjavur district

Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, both in the developed and developing countries. In low- and middle-income countries the incidence has been rising up steadily in the last years due to increase in life expectancy, increase urbanization and adoption of western lifestyles. Currently there is not sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer; therefore, early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women in India. One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, in India, every 4 minutes. One woman dies of Breast cancer, in India, every 8 minutes. An estimated 70,218 women died of breast cancer in India, for the year 2012, the highest in the world for that year. Factors that increase the risk of breast cancer: Country of birth, Increasing age, Female sex, Having had a breast cancer, Family history of breast cancer, Abnormal breast tissue on biopsy, Nodular densities on mammogram, High dose radiation to chest, Prolonged estrogen exposure, Smoking, Excessive weight, Heavy alcohol intake, Urban place of residence and social class, Race. This study analysis impact of education on awareness about breast cancer among rural women in Thanjavur district.