Factors Associated with the Prevalence of Breast Cancer Risk: Perception of Northern Saudi Civic

Abstract

Background: The incidence of breast cancer is increasing in Saudi Arabia, chiefly in distant provinces with cases assigning advanced stages of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge towards external exposure related to breast cancer risk factors in Qurayyat, Northern Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This descriptive study included 724 Saudi volunteers living in the city of Qurayyat, Northern Saudi Arabia. For females, only those agreeing to participate in the breast self-examination workshop were included and were further investigated for the presence of breast lumps. Results: In comparison of females vs. males, as for the point “Do you know food increases or decreases the risk of BC”, 92 (15%) women stated “Yes (Some prevented BC)” vs. 24 (24%) of the men; 78 (12.5%) women stated “Yes (Some caused BC)” vs. 25 (25%) of the men. Referring to the socket “Overweight or obesity increases the risk of BC”, 290 (46.5%) women stated “Yes” vs. 53 (53%) of the men. As for the inquiry “Viruses can increase the risk of BC”, 370 (60%) women stated “Yes” vs. 49 (49%) of the men. Conclusion: There is a lack of breast cancer awareness in Northern Saudi Arabia with the existence of many women with undetected breast lumps. BSE is cost-effective, and it can be implemented in such inaccessible areas.