Breast Self-examination and Mammography: Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors among Female Primary Health-care Workers in Southern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Insufficient knowledge about breast cancer risk factors and suboptimal practice of screening methods among female health-care professionals necessitated this study. We aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors of breast self-examination (BSE) and mammography among female primary health-care workers in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This descriptive, cross-sectional observation study was conducted in the southern region of Saudi Arabia, specifically focusing on female primary health-care workers. The study was executed between March 2023 and May 2023, utilizing online self-administered questionnaires for data collection. Results: The analysis included 252 participants, with the majority 144 (57.1%) falling within the 20–29 age range. In terms of personal history, 207 (82.1%) reported no previous breast problems, while the prevalence of breast problems in first- and second-degree relatives was 43 (17.1%) and 45 (17.9%), respectively. Regarding BSE, 126 (50.0%) reported never having performed it, and 201 (79.8%) reported never undergoing screening mammography. Knowledge levels varied, with 156 (61.9%) classified as having poor knowledge and 96 (38.1%) as having good knowledge. Conclusion: This research highlights the insufficient understanding and suboptimal implementation of BSE and mammography among female primary health-care professionals in the southern part of Saudi Arabia.