Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Breastfeeding and Weaning Among Mothers of Infants in Punjab Rangers Teaching Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

Objectives:   To identify the determinants of Breast Self-Examination (BSE) practice among women of Sialkot, Pakistan

Methodology:  This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Medicine, Punjab Rangers Teaching Hospital, Lahore, from October 2025- Feb 2026. The study was conducted among 400 female participants using a non-probability convenience sampling technique from 1st May to 31st October 2025. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers related to BSE practice among women aged 20-49 years. 

Results:  The mean knowledge score was 9.5±3.68, with 52% of participants demonstrating adequate knowledge (score>9.5), while the mean attitude score was 7.4±1.94, with 57.3% of participants having a favorable attitude(score>7.4) towards BSE. A total of 58.3% reported practicing BSE; out of these, only 40.3% performed it monthly, 19.7% a few days after menstruation, and 14.2% in front of a mirror and lying down. Upper-middle class showed a significant association with knowledge(p=0.002) and attitude(p<0.001). Literate participants and those from urban areas had significantly adequate knowledge levels (p = 0.036 and p = 0.018, respectively). Key barriers to BSE included a lack of knowledge to perform BSE, not having symptoms of breast cancer, fear of diagnosis, cultural norms, embarrassment, and privacy concerns.

Conclusion:  The study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance BSE knowledge and address attitudinal and cultural barriers, particularly among women in rural and lower socioeconomic groups. Additionally, healthcare workers in primary care settings can play a key role in the correct practice of BSE, where they commonly seek advice.