# 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.

## Key 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.