To do or not to do? The role of body image and Theory of Planned Behaviour on the implementation of Breast Self-Examination

Breast-Self Examination (BSE) is an efficient and cost-effective breast cancer prevention strategy. BSE requires a meticulous examination of one’s breasts, so that women who are dissatisfied and uncomfortable with their bodies may perform this less frequently. On the other hand, when women develop a positive attitude towards their bodies, they tend to be more inclined to take care of their overall health by performing medical screening more frequently. Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as a framework, this study examines the role of various dimensions of body image (positive and negative), together with the components of TPB, in predicting BSE intentions and actual behaviour in Italian women. The initial sample (T1) of 409 women (M=30.31) decreased to 105 participants (M=31.45) at follow-up (T2). The questionnaire at T1 captured the variables associated with TPB and body image, while at T2 the actual behaviour was recorded. Path-analysis indicates that intentions are positively associated with behaviour, predicted by subjective norms and Perceived Behavioural Control (PBC). General body dissatisfaction appears to indirectly predict intentions (via PBC) whereas body-compassion and breast dissatisfaction are directly associated with behaviour. These findings emphasise the importance of structuring breast cancer prevention campaigns that include interventions aimed at improving body image, from a compassionate perspective, and that emphasise the role of significant others and the perceived ease and cost-effectiveness of performing the BSE to increase behavioural intention and, consequently, behaviour implementation.