Training On Self-Breast Examination Using Visual Breast Examination Materials For İlliterate Women.

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, and early detection is one of the most effective strategies for reducing mortality. However, women with limited literacy often have lower awareness of breast cancer, inadequate knowledge of breast self-examination (BSE), and reduced motivation to engage in preventive health behaviors. Traditional educational approaches that rely heavily on written information may be insufficient for this population. This randomized controlled trial has been designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a visual educational intervention developed specifically for illiterate women of reproductive age living in rural areas. The intervention incorporates culturally appropriate visual materials, including illustrated educational brochures, demonstration videos, and a handmade amigurumi breast model to facilitate practical learning of breast self-examination techniques. Participants allocated to the intervention group will receive structured face-to-face education delivered in three educational sessions. The sessions include information on breast anatomy, warning signs of breast cancer, the importance of early detection, recommended breast cancer screening practices, and step-by-step demonstration of breast self-examination using visual teaching materials. Interactive practice and reinforcement activities are incorporated to improve knowledge retention and skill acquisition. Participants in the control group will receive routine health services without the structured educational intervention during the study period. The effectiveness of the intervention will be evaluated by comparing changes in breast cancer awareness and health motivation before and after the intervention using validated measurement instruments. The findings are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of visual education strategies for improving preventive health behaviors among women with low literacy and may contribute to the development of community-based breast cancer education programs for disadvantaged populations.