Level of knowledge of rotating interns about preven-tion and timely detection of breast cancer: Original Research

Abstract

Introduction: In 2020, according to Globocan data, Ecuador registered 3,563 new cases of breast cancer, being the most prevalent diagnosis in the female population, all strategies’ in the fight against this pathology will be great value. The objective of the study is to determine the level of knowledge of the rotating medical interns about the prevention and timely detection of breast cancer.

Methodology: Descriptive cross-sectional study in 111 rotating medical interns at Hospital Teodoro Maldonado. A questionnaire with 15 closed multiple-choice questions was used, recording sociodemographic characteristics and questions related to knowledge in health promotion, identification of signs, symptoms, risk factors and screening with mammography. Given the context of the COVID19 health emergency, the questionnaire was virtual.

Results: The median age was between 25 and 30 years, 62.2% were women. 95.5% wanted to take rural medicine. The least known prevention measure in 85.6% was the age required to start screening with mammography. The least known risk factor was the consumption of alcohol 39.6%, while 85.6% considered the genetic-hereditary factor as the predominant element for development of breast cancer.

Conclusion: The level of knowledge of the study participants was found to be at a sufficient level. It is necessary to reinforce aspects such as the recognition of signs and symptoms, and the identification of related modifiable risk factors.