Examining Gender Differences in Breast Cancer Knowledge and Screening Behaviour Among Adults in South East Nigeria: Implications for Radiography Practice

Gender differences in breast cancer knowledge and screening behaviour affect the design of public health interventions and the diagnostic imaging referral patterns encountered in South East Nigerian radiology departments, yet empirical evidence on these differences in the region is limited and often focused exclusively on women. This study examines gender differences in breast cancer knowledge, risk perception, and screening behaviour among adults in South East Nigeria and analyses implications for radiographic screening service design. A cross-sectional analytical survey is conducted among 400 adults (200 male, 200 female) selected through stratified random sampling from communities and healthcare facilities across Enugu, Imo, and Anambra States. Validated instruments measure breast cancer knowledge scores, perceived personal risk, attitudes toward screening, prior screening history, and reported barriers by gender. Independent samples t-tests, chi-square analysis, and multiple regression in SPSS compare male and female profiles. Available breast cancer gender knowledge literature from South East Nigeria identifies men as having significantly lower screening knowledge than women, yet research on male breast cancer screening awareness as a radiography access issue is almost entirely absent. The Health Belief Model and social identity theory provide the theoretical framework. Findings are expected to identify specific male knowledge gaps and screening access barriers requiring targeted radiography service outreach. Recommendations address male-inclusive breast health education, clinical breast examination referral pathways for men, and gynecomastia and male breast lesion imaging service standards in South East Nigeria. Keywords: breast cancer, gender differences, screening behaviour, South East Nigeria, radiography.