Development and Validation of Breast Self-Examination Scale (BSES) to Practice, Knowledge and Attitude towards Breast Self-Examination among Malaysian Women

Abstract

Introduction:

Breast cancer is one of the common, life-threatening cancer among wome worldwide. However, diagnosis tends to occur at a later stage, negatively affecting prognosis and treatment outcomes. Raising public awareness and knowledge could possibly contribute to early detection, hence improve survival rates. We aimed to develop a tool to assess practice, knowledge and attitude towards breast self-examination (BSE) among women.

Methods:

We developed Breast Self-Examination Scale (BSES) based on literature review via three phases: (a) domain identification, (b) domain blueprinting and (c) item generation for each domain assessing practice, knowledge and attitude towards BSE. Two forms of validity evidence related to content (n=3) and response process (n=40) were critically appraised by experts and a sample of female adults, respectively. Content validity index (CVI) and face validity index (FVI) estimated the content validity and response process validity.

Results:

Breast Self-Examination Scale (BSES) assessed the practice, knowledge and attitude towards BSE. CVI values for the three domains were 1. The FVI values for the three domains In the revised version of questionnaires were also 1.

Conclusion:

BSES is a valid tool for evaluating the practice, knowledge and attitude towards BSE among Malaysian women.