Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Surrounding Breast Cancer and Screening in Female Teachers of Buraidah, Saudi Arabia

Background : Breast cancer is by far the most frequent cancer of women. However the preventive measures for such problem are probably less than expected. The objectives of this study are to assess breast cancer knowledge and attitudes and factors associated with the practice of breast self examination (BSE) among female teachers of Saudi Arabia. Patients and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of teachers working in female schools in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia using a self-administered questionnaire to investigate participants' knowledge about the risk factors of breast cancer, their attitudes and screening behaviors. A sample of 376 female teachers was randomly selected. Participants lived in urban areas, and had an average age of 34.7 ±5.4 years. Results: More than half of the women showed a limited knowledge level. Among participants, the most frequently reported risk factors were non-breast feeding and the use of female sex hormones. The printed media was the most common source of knowledge. Logistic regression analysis revealed that high income was the most significant predictor of better knowledge level. Knowing a non-relative case with breast cancer and having a high knowledge level were identified as the significant predictors for practicing BSE. Conclusions: The study points to the insufficient knowledge of female teachers about breast cancer and identified the negative influence of low knowledge on the practice of BSE. Accordingly, relevant educational programs to improve the knowledge level of women regarding breast cancer are needed. Key words: breast cancer, Saudi Arabia, knowledge, screening, self examination of breast