Awareness and Knowledge of Breast Cancer Screening Methods among Women in Al-Qunfudah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women in Saudi Arabia. Screening helps in early detection and prompt treatment of breast cancer, leading to a better prognosis. Lack of knowledge and awareness of its screening methods can lead to bad outcomes. So far, little is known of women’s knowledge of breast cancer screening. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of breast cancer screening among Saudi women in Al-Qunfudah. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study including 203 adult Saudi women aged 18 years and above. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire from Saudi women in Al-Qunfudah, Saudi Arabia in 2019. The data were entered and statistically analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Findings revealed that all the participants in this study heard of breast cancer, and their awareness of breast self-examination was high (93.6%). Awareness levels were lower concerning clinical breast examination (63.1%) and mammography (65.5%). However, only 43.3% correctly practiced breast self-examination, and 5.9% had ever heard of a mammogram. Knowledge of breast cancer screening with mammography screening was significantly related to participant age (P=0.04), marital status (P=0.008), and occupation (P=0.04). Furthermore, the relation between participants who underwent mammography and age was significant (P=0.001). Conclusion: Our data indicate that the knowledge, awareness, and practices were insufficient, and educational interventions are required in Al-Qunfudah to encourage young women to practice screening for early detection.