Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Breast Cancer Screening and Mammograms Among Women Aged 40 Years and Older in the United Arab Emirates

TL;DR

This study examines women's knowledge and attitudes about breast cancer screening in the UAE, finding gaps in understanding mammogram timing and frequency.

Contribution

The study provides insights into breast cancer screening awareness among UAE women aged 40 and older.

Findings

Most participants believed screening is beneficial, but many had incorrect knowledge about mammogram timing and frequency.

Social media and health professionals were key sources of awareness about breast cancer screening.

Only 16.3% of participants were recommended for screening by their physician.

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitude regarding breast cancer screening and mammograms among 40 years and older females in the United Arab Emirates.

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on women faculty, staff, and female patients attending our hospital. The inclusion criteria were women ≥ 40 years old who agreed to participate. The exclusion criteria were women < 40 and those ≥ 40 years who refused to participate. A signed informed consent was taken. A p-value of < 0.5 was considered significant.

Results: Among the 460 women enrolled, 420 completed the survey (response rate 91%). The mean age was 48.4 ± 8.2 years. A total of 63.4% of the participants were < 50 years of age. A total of 53.3% were never screened before. About 98% believed that screening is beneficial in early detection. Social media (52.2%) and health professionals (46%) played a vital role in creating awareness. The majority of women were aware of self-breast examinations (73.3%), followed by mammography (68.6%). About 84% and 68.3%, of the participants had incorrect knowledge of the timing and frequency of mammograms, respectively. Only 16.3% of the participants were recommended by their physician, while the rest (83.7%) performed screening based on their awareness. No significant association was found between nutritional status (p=0.252), age at first pregnancy (p=0.409), or having children (p= 0.377) with mammogram uptake. There was a significant association between the perceived benefit of screening and mammogram uptake (p=0.033). There was a positive association between radiation therapy to the chest area and mammogram uptake (p<0.024). A statistically significant association was found between the correct timing of mammograms with family history of cancer (p = 0.037) and previous exposure to radiation therapy to the chest (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: There is a need to increase knowledge and awareness regarding breast cancer screening and mammograms among women in UAE. Specifically, breast self-examination should be encouraged and recommended.

Figures