Objective: Even though breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in females in Pakistan, there is apaucity of evidence on the views of Pakistani Muslim women in relation to breast cancer. This study aimed toinvestigate the perceptions of Pakistani Muslim women in relation to the aetiology of breast cancer and impressionsof breast health. The study took place in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: This survey used a questionnaire and focusgroup interviews to investigate women’s perspectives on breast health. Data was collected over a period of sixmonths, quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data was analysed usingthematic analysis. Results: 105 women participated in the questionnaire and 48 women contributed to 6 focusgroup interviews. Women generally were aware of the term breast cancer but were unsure of its aetiology. Thequestionnaire data revealed that women were aware of both mammography (55%) and breast self examination(BSE) (77%). Fifty five percent of women had been taught the BSE technique. In comparison, the majority ofwomen attending the focus group interviews had limited exposure to BSE or mammography. Although womenhad heard of mammograms and BSE they were unaware of BSE technique or breast cancer screening procedures. Conclusions: Even though there is a desire amongst women to engage in BSE by being taught the necessarytechnique and specific pathological changes to look for, there is a strong cultural opinion that breasts are privateorgans that should not be discussed publically. In view of this and the frequency of breast cancer in PakistaniMuslim women, it is essential that breast awareness campaigns are implemented by health care professionalssuch as breast cancer nurses, midwives and medical practitioners to explore the concept of BSE and breastcancer. Selective health education can educate women and lead to changes in health behavior.
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