Evaluation of Health Belief Model-Based Intervention on Breast Cancer Screening Behaviors among Health Volunteers

Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of death among women. Regarding the lack of knowledge about the cause of breast cancer and considering the fact that all women are prone to this disease, training on methods of early diagnosis to reduce its complications is of great importance. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of education based on the health belief model on breast cancer screening behaviors in health volunteers of health centers in Isfahan. In this experimental study, 480 healthy volunteers were randomly divided into two groups: the case (n = 240) and control (n = 240). The training program was designed according to health belief model structures. Before the training interventional program, the Champion standard questionnaire and functional checklist were completed for both groups. A standard questionnaire was completed during three stages (before, immediately after, and 2 months after the training). The experimental group received the educational intervention during eight sessions, and the collected data was eventually analyzed using the SPSS statistical software version 16 with relevant statistical tests. Participation of all individuals in the present research was voluntary and with informed consent. The results showed that mean scores of knowledge, perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, and behavioral intention related to breast self-examination (BSE) and mammography in the intervention group significantly increased compared with those of the control group immediately after and 2 months after educational intervention. There was a significant difference between groups in BSE skill 2 months after the intervention, but there was no significant difference between the two groups in BSE behavior and mammography 2 months after the intervention. The results confirmed the efficiency and effectiveness of an educational intervention based on the health belief model on improving factors affecting breast cancer screening behaviors.