Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with 1 in 8 women being diagnosed in their lifetime. Conducting studies to raise awareness about breast cancer and breast self- examination is crucial. Early detection is essential, and woman should consider a routine part of screening. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and self-examination practice among women in the Emirate of Sharjah. 

Methodology: A cross-sectional mixed-method approach was used, employing both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The target population consisted of women in Sharjah. Using the purposive sampling method, a convenient sample of 300 participants were chosen for the survey, and 20 were selected for in-depth interviews. The data was gathered through a combination of structured and unstructured questionnaires. Quantitative data was organized, cleaned, coded, and entered using SPSS software for analysis. Qualitative  information analyzed using an appropriated qualitative data analysis method.

Results and Discussion: The majority of the participants (77.6%) were aged between 18 and 35 years. Participants identified factors they believe contribute to breast cancer, including family history (81%), birth control pills (45.3%), aging (27.7%), lack of physical activity (32.7%), chest radiation (65.3%), alcohol (35.3%), smoking (42.7%), and obesity (36.7%). Regarding breast cancer awareness, 51.7% of participants were knowledgeable about mammograms, 10% about clinical breast examinations, and 17.7% about breast self-examinations. The study found that 67% of participants believe mammography is an useful tool for early detection. However, 80% of them had never undergone a mammogram. Research shows 95% of participants believe early detection improves survival rates; however, 33.3% do not know how to practice it.

Conclusion: The study highlights the need for initiate policies/strategy and awareness efforts, particularly in educating women on self- examination techniques and encouraging proactive healthcare behaviors.