Removing the blindfolds: knowledge of blind women about breast cancer

Abstract

Objective: Understanding the knowledge of blind women about risk factors and early detection of breast cancer. Method: Ancross-sectional study, developed in 2010, at Instituto dos Cegos, Campina Grande/PB, Brazil. 16 women also participated and answered a questionnaire with open and multiple choice questions about risk factors and early detection of breast cancer. It was applied a descriptive statistics and content analysis of Bardinto the data collected. Results: The following categories emerged: Deficit of knowledge about early detection of breast cancer and Myths about breast cancer. The surveyed women were unaware of the risk factors for breast cancer and did not practice self-care for early detection. Conclusion: Knowledge of blind women about risk factors and early detection of breast cancer is pervaded by doubts and myths, nurses should develop strategies for health education, screening and early detection.