A Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Peer Education on Knowledge and Practice of Breast Self-Examination among Undergraduate Students of a Selected College in Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada.

Breast cancer continues to be a major public health concern among Indian women, and early detection through Breast Self-Examination (BSE) can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. Despite this, awareness and regular practice of BSE among young women, especially college students, remains inadequate. Peer education is an effective health-promotion strategy that utilizes trained students to teach and motivate their peers, creating a comfortable and relatable learning environment.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured peer training program on improving the knowledge and practice of BSE among undergraduate female students in a selected college in Mangalore. The research adopts a pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design. During the study, selected peer educators will receive training on breast cancer awareness and BSE techniques. These peer educators will then conduct interactive teaching sessions and demonstrations for the participants.

Knowledge will be assessed using a validated questionnaire, and BSE practice will be evaluated using an observational checklist before and after the intervention. The findings are expected to provide evidence on whether peer-led education can serve as a cost-effective and sustainable method to promote early detection behaviors among young women. The study also aims to support future health-promotion activities in educational institutions.