Patterns, knowledge and barriers of mammography use among women in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess mammography use and knowledge, and to determine barriers associated with mammography utilization among Saudi women. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey in 5 main geographic regions of Saudi Arabia from February 2015 to May 2015. The sample comprised women aged ≥40 years. Associations between socio-demographic factors and mammography use were tested using chi-square test. Predictors of mammography use were assessed by logistic regression Results: A total of 3,245 women were surveyed, with 40% reporting ever having a mammogram. Never having a mammogram was associated with older age (≥ 60 years), being single or divorced, having <2 children, not completing high school, and having a family history (hx) of breast cancer. Participants of older age [OR51-60 versus (vs) 41-50=0.6, 95% CI=0.5-0.7 and OR>60 vs. 41-50=0.5,95% CI=0.3-0.8, respectively], and divorced [OR divorced vs. married=0.6,95% CI=0.5-0.8] were less likely to have had a mammogram, while participants with no family hx of breast cancer [OR no family hx vs. family hx=1.5, 95%CI=1.3-1.8] were more likely to have had a mammogram. Conclusion: Mammography utilization and knowledge are low in Saudi Arabia. Increasing the awareness of breast cancer screening through educational programs could help women overcome existing barriers and misconceptions.