Abstract
BackgroundBreast cancer screening can reduce morbidity and mortality and improve the survival rate for this malignancy. Low participation in screening programs has been attributable to many factors including lack of knowledge. The aim of this study was to assess breast cancer screening knowledge, attitudes and practices among women of screening age (≥40 years old) in the city of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (UAE).MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2013 using the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM). Four out of twelve cultural and religious community centers in Al Ain city were randomly selected. Two hundred and forty seven women were interviewed. Chi Square test and regression analysis were used to analyze the data.ResultsDespite the increase in the uptake of screening modalities in our study group, a lack of knowledge about breast cancer screening is still evident. Almost half (44.8%) of women who never had a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) and 44.1% of women who never had a mammography expressed a lack of knowledge about the existence of these screening techniques. Nearly one third of the participants interpreted the presence of a breast lump incorrectly and, moreover, expressed fewer worries about the nature of the lump than would normally be expected.ConclusionsThe National screening program needs to be improved and directed towards more efficient and targeted utilization of resources. Healthcare professionals play a major role in alerting women to the importance of periodic screening.
Highlights
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women
Early detection in order to improve breast cancer outcome and survival remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control [2]
The program follows international guidelines using a combination of monthly Breast Self-Exam (BSE), regular Clinical Breast Exam (CBE), and a mammography every two years after the age of 40 [4,5]
Summary
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. The most recent estimate indicated that more than 1.6 million new cases of breast cancer occurred among women worldwide in 2010 [1]. Control of modifiable breast cancer risk factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and reducing alcohol intake could eventually have an impact in reducing the incidence of breast cancer. These strategies cannot eliminate the majority of breast cancers. We aimed to assess the breast cancer screening awareness, knowledge and practice among women of screening age in the city of Al Ain, UAE. The aim of this study was to assess breast cancer screening knowledge, attitudes and practices among women of screening age ($40 years old) in the city of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.