The relationship between factors affecting breast cancer knowledge, awareness and prevention behaviors in women aged 20–49 years: the case of Bartın Province

AIM: Early diagnosis of breast cancer increases the chances of success in treatment and survival. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between factors affecting breast cancer knowledge, awareness and prevention behaviors in women aged 20–49 years in Bartın province. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted between May - June 2025 with 303 women who were members of social media and forum pages. The data were obtained using the Personal Data Collection Form, the Comprehensive Breast Cancer Knowledge Test (CBCKT), the Determining Factors Affecting Women’s Breast Cancer Prevention Behaviors Scale (DFAWBCPBS) and the Breast Cancer Awareness Scale (BCAS). RESULTS: A statistically significant and positive correlation was found between the mean total score of the CBCKT and both the DFAWBCPBS (p < .001, r = .772) and the BCAS (p < .001, r = .593). It was found that the total mean scores of the CBCKT, the DFAWBCPBS, and BCAS were higher in women who knew and performed breast self-examination, knew mammography, was having the screening mammography, and knew the age and frequency of mammography compared to other women (p < .001). CONCLUSION: A positive relationship was observed between awareness and behavior. It is recommended that women’s health and public health nurses organize trainings to increase their awareness and knowledge levels in the early diagnosis and treatment processes of breast cancer.