Abstract
Objective: To assess level and determinants of knowledge about, and risk factors for, breast cancer among women in the child bearing period in Al Hassa, KSA.
Study design: cross-sectional descriptive.
Participants and Method: A total of 1315 Saudi females over 18 years of age were included, selected through multistage stratified sampling method from ten primary health care centers. No previous history of breast cancer and attending for routine services or accompanying patients were prerequisites for eligibility. Participants were invited to personal interview using pre-tested validated questionnaire including inquiries regarding knowledge, screening practices including self, clinical breast examination, mammography, individual breast cancer risk factors and perceived barriers towards screening.
Statistical management: data entry and analysis was carried out using SPSS 13 (SPSS Inc., IL). Both descriptive and inferential tests of significance were applied when appropriate, logistic regression was generated to determine the possible correlates of knowledge.
Results: Overall level of knowledge regards risk factors and proper screening was low and dependent upon educational and occupational status. Breast self-examination was practiced in < 30 %. Clinical breast examination was used among < 5% and mammography in < 3%. Positive Family history found in 18% among first and second degree relatives, 2 % had a prior history of benign breast mass or biopsy.
Conclusion: irrespective of the level of educational status there is a knowledge deficit among Saudi women in Al Hassa about the risk factors, methods for early detection and screening of breast cancer. Several risk factors are present among the included sample which needs careful attention.