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

Abstract

Objectives:

To assess mammography utilization 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. As indicated by the univariable analyses, older age (≥60 years), being single or divorced, having <2 children, not completing high school, and having a family history (hx) of breast cancer were significantly associated with never having a mammogram. Participants of older age (odds ratio [OR] 51-60 versus 41-50 = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.5-0.7 and OR >60 versus 41-50 = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-0.8), and divorced (OR divorced versus 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 versus 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.