Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p> <bold>Background</bold> Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality in India. BC burden is higher in the state of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Early detection of Breast cancer can reduce its morbidity and mortality. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, non-expensive, relatively quick, non-invasive, and harmless intervention considered to be an effective strategy for early detection. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding BSE among female non-medical college students in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. <bold>Methods</bold> This cross- sectional study included responses from 513 women (Mean age = 20.30 ± 2.00) from non-medical college going students of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Data collection adopted a self – administrated questionnaire assessing KAP regarding BSE. Statistical analysis included independent samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Binary logistic regression. <bold>Results</bold> The majority of the participants demonstrated inadequate knowledge (74.5%), unfavourable attitudes (82.8%) and poor practice (89.1%). Prior awareness of BSE emerged as the strongest predictor of good practice, with participants who heard about BSE demonstrating significantly higher odds of good practice (OR = 2.441, 95% CI: 1.355–4.397, p = .003). Educational level, Place of birth and area of residence were not significantly associated with BSE- related outcomes. <bold>Conclusion</bold> Female non- medical college students in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana exhibited suboptimal breast health literacy. These findings highlight that in order to raise awareness and promote early detection practices; higher education institutions should implement organized campus-based breast health initiatives. </p>