Racial differences in fibroid prevalence and awareness in asymptomatic young women (18-30 years old)

Abstract

Race is a known risk factor for fibroids but there is a paucity of information on the racial differences in fibroid prevalence in asymptomatic young women.We sought to compare the prevalence of ultrasound-diagnosed fibroids, differences in uterine and adnexal anatomy and fibroid knowledge in asymptomatic black and white young women. Prospective Cohort Study. Non-parous black and white women, ages 18-30, were recruited.Women with a diagnosis of fibroids or clinically suggestive symptoms were excluded. Subjects completed a questionnaire on fibroid knowledge and a health literacy survey. A transvaginal pelvic ultrasound was performed in the follicular phase. Of the 86 participants (mean age 24.3 ± 3.6), 42% self-identified as black and 58% as white. 72% had at least a college degree. 58% were employed and 59% reported active contraception use.The overall prevalence of ultrasound-diagnosed fibroids was 14% (22% in black women and 8% in white women; P=0.06).The mean size of the largest fibroid was 2.1±1.9cm. There was a significant difference in endometrial thickness (P<0.01), uterine volume (P=0.02) and ovarian volume (0.03) between races.While 92% of subjects knew fibroids can cause menorrhagia, only 59% were able to name a treatment for fibroids. 22% thought fibroids could be diagnosed with a blood test and 29% thought fibroids were more common in white women. Knowledge responses correlated significantly with race and education level. Racial differences in fibroid prevalence exist even before women become symptomatic,with differences in uterine and ovarian dimensions that could be clinically relevant.Young women are aware of clinical symptoms linked to fibroids; however knowledge is limited on fibroid diagnosis and treatment. Knowing the racial differences in onset of fibroids may allow for early interventions to reduce the current disparities in morbidity. Improved health education is needed to raise fibroid awareness in young women.