Awareness of breast cancer and perceived barriers to breast screening methods: a community based cross-sectional study among women in Yemen

Abstract

Background: In Yemen, effective early detection and a comprehensive grasp of breast cancer symptoms and risk factors are vital in preventing its potentially deadly spread. However, challenges arise in combating breast cancer in Yemen due to the lack of patient registries, national strategies, and structured cancer treatment plans. Objective: This research sought to evaluate the awareness levels of breast cancer and the perceived obstacles to breast cancer screening among adult Yemeni women. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted from September 2023 to January 2024 from two teaching and largest hospitals in the capital municipality, Sana'a, Yemen, where 533 women (≥ 18 years old) were conveniently selected in this study. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 23). The Chi-square test was used to test associations. The factors associated with breast cancer awareness and barriers to breast cancer screening were analyzed separately, using multivariable logistic regression. Results: The study revealed that 88.6% of women were familiar with breast cancer, and 61.9% being knowledgeable about screening methods such as clinical breast examination (CBE) or mammography. The primary hindrance to screening (84.1%, n = 53) was the absence of symptoms or pain. The second most common reason for not undergoing screening was a lack of understanding about breast cancer and its treatment (61.9%, n = 39). Conclusion: To enhance breast cancer screening rates among Yemeni women consistently, targeted educational programs emphasizing the benefits of early detection and dispelling misconceptions and barriers related to the disease are essential.