Association between sociodemographic factors and breast self-examination practices in women of childbearing age from rural Peru

Palomino Medina A.P.; Huaranga Bautista E.S.; Suárez Rodríguez R.; Conde Rodríguez I.A. · International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics (2026) · DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.70323

Resumen

Objective: To determine the association between sociodemographic factors and breast self-examination (BSE) practices among women of childbearing age from the rural communities of El Portillo and Pomaticla, Peru. Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational study with a nonprobability convenience sample of 605 women aged 15–49 years was conducted. BSE practice was assessed using a validated instrument (Cronbach α = 0.982). Data were analyzed with χ2 tests and multinomial logistic regression using R software. Results: Educational level, region of birth, marital status, health insurance, and absence of breast injury history were significantly associated with adequate BSE practices (P < 0.05). Women with complete high school education had a significantly higher likelihood of adequate BSE practice (odds ratio, 10.62; P < 0.001). Residence in Pomaticla and being affiliated with EsSalud were also associated with increased practice. Conclusion: Sociodemographic factors significantly influence BSE practices. Targeted health education strategies are needed to promote early detection behaviors in vulnerable female populations in rural Peru.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Unión