Screening for breast cancer among young Jordanian women: ambiguity and apprehension

Abstract

The goal of this study was to understand young Jordanian women's attitudes towards breast cancer screening practices in order to improve young women's uptake of screening and early detection. The incidence of breast cancer is increasing annually among younger Jordanian women; however, little is known about their attitudes towards breast cancer and associated screening practices. Young women's attitudes towards breast cancer must be taken into account when designing screening strategies and interventions specifically for this age group. Screening strategies must also acknowledge young women's cultural context; however, little is known about how culture shapes their understandings and practices. A qualitative interpretive approach was utilized to interview 45 young educated women about their breast cancer views and screening practices. Data were analysed thematically. Four overlapping themes emerged: (i) young women should not think about it, (ii) absence of a role model, (iii) cultural shame of breast cancer, and (iv) cancer means death and disability. The study found high levels of apprehension and ambiguity related to breast cancer. This was associated with the perceived impact of a cancer diagnosis on a young woman's social status and family role. Family support was perceived to be a necessary prerequisite for seeking treatment or screening. Understanding young women's perception about screening and early detection of breast cancer is essential for policy makers and healthcare providers to design culturally appropriate and age-appropriate health promotion campaigns and services.