Knowledge, attitude, and behavior among Saudis toward cancer preventive practice

Knowledge and Level of Awareness Regarding Breast Cancer and Practices of Breast Screening Methods Among Female Riyadh Citizens

Background Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Some of the risk factors for breast cancer include family history, personal history, and hormonal replacement therapy. There are different methods of screening breast cancer, including clinical examination, breast self-examination (BSE), and mammograms. Despite the various modalities of screening, the screening was low, and the level of awareness was variable. Objective The objective of this research is to determine the knowledge and level of awareness regarding breast cancer and BSE among female Riyadh citizens. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 408 participants, using a convenient sample technique. The inclusion criteria were female, Riyadh residents, aged between 18 and 70 years old. An online survey was distributed among female Riyadh residents, and it included demographic data, knowledge regarding breast cancer, its risk factors, BSE, and mammograms. The questionnaire was constructed for this study, and validity and reliability were tested. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 22; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY) software was used for statistics. Analysis of quantitative data by a t-test and association of qualitative variables by a chi-square test was conducted. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 408 participated in our sturdy, with the majority aged 50 years and above. All of those aged between 18 and 30, in addition to the majority of those aged 50 and above, showed poor knowledge. Gathering information through campaigns and TV/radio was associated with better knowledge compared to other sources. Knowledge regarding breast cancer risk factors was better among younger participants compared to older ones. Regarding BSE, all participants, regardless of age, showed poor knowledge. However, older participants aged 50 and above showed good knowledge in regard mammograms. Conclusion Most of the participants showed poor knowledge in regards to breast cancer symptoms and signs, risk factors, and BSE. However, knowledge regarding mammograms was mostly good among the participants. The variations in knowledge were influenced by several factors, including age, educational level, number of kids, information sources, and prior history of history of breast cancer or of a relative.

A Cross-Sectional Study on the Knowledge and Awareness of Lung Cancer and Screening in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer (LC) is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. With lung cancer often diagnosed at advanced stages, understanding the local population's awareness levels is crucial for designing effective preventive strategies. By identifying gaps in knowledge, the research aims to inform targeted health education efforts, optimize resource allocation, influence policy development, and contribute to the limited body of research on lung cancer awareness in the region, ultimately fostering improved public health outcomes.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in Jazan region, Saudi Arabia, from July 2022 to June 2023, 671 participants over 18 years old, encompassing both genders, were gsurveyed. Data was collected through a questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and LC-related awareness. SPSS 23 was used for analysis. Factors associated with knowledge scores were explored using independent t-tests and ANOVA, with the Tukey post-hoc test identifying specific group differences.

RESULTS

The study included 671 participants, most participants were between 18 and 35 years (73.5%), with 38.5% males and 61.5% females. Lung cancer (LC) awareness was high (95.1%), with 4.9% reporting a family history. Knowledge assessment revealed a mean score of 14.66, with 41.6% having low, 49.5% moderate, and 8.9% high knowledge levels. Correct responses were notable for recognizing LC as a common cancer, a leading cause of death, and associating smoking and shisha with risk. Symptoms were well identified. Screening awareness was at 63.5%, with 78.8% willing to undergo tests if at risk. Age, marital status, and occupation were associated with knowledge, while factors like gender, nationality, residency, education, income, and smoking status showed no significant associations.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that there are knowledge gaps related to LC and its screening in Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. Effective awareness programs targeting specific sociodemographic groups are needed to improve the early detection and outcomes.

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients in the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases, and ignoring dental health care before and after treatment can have severe long-term consequences. Additionally, this may have a negative impact on the patient's general quality of life.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to assess oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among breast cancer patients and identify possible factors associated with the outcome.

METHODOLOGY

In this observational cross-sectional study, 200 women who had received breast cancer therapy and were being followed up at a hospital made up the sample. The study was conducted between January 2021 and July 2022. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, general health, and breast cancer was recorded. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth index was used in clinical examinations to identify caries experience. OHRQoL was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. After adjusting for confounding variables, a logistic regression analysis was used to determine the related factors.

RESULTS

The mean OHIP-14 score was 11.48 (SD 1.35). There was a 63.0% prevalence of negative impacts. Age and the time frame from cancer diagnosis were found to be significantly linked with the outcome by binary logistic regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast cancer survivors who were ≤55 years old and the time elapsed since diagnosis was less than 36 months had a poor OHRQoL. To lessen the negative impacts of cancer treatment and enhance quality of life, patients with breast cancer need special oral care and should be monitored before, during, and after cancer treatment.

Colorectal cancer screening barriers and facilitators among Jordanians: A cross-sectional study

The factors affecting the adherence of Jordanians to colorectal cancer (CRC) screening remain underexplored. We examined the inhibitory and facilitating factors that influence the uptake of CRC screening among Jordanians. We conducted questionnaire interviews between April 2020 and June 2021 with 861 Jordanians aged 50-75. We analyzed the differences between proportions using the chi-square test. Binary logistic regression was conducted to determine factors associated with awareness of CRC and its screening. Of all participants, 41.7 % were aware of the necessity of screening for CRC, and 27.2 % were aware of at least one of the tests for CRC screening. However, only 17.2 % of participants underwent screening. In the multivariate analysis, participants with higher income (p-value < 0.001, odds ratio[OR] = 1.9, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-2.7), higher level of education (p-value < 0.001, OR = 2.6, 95 % CI: 1.8-3.7), family history of colon cancer (p-value < 0.001, OR = 2.8, 95 % CI = 1.7-4.5), and those who had been screened for other cancers (p-value = 0.003, OR = 1.7, 95 % CI: 1.2-2.5) were more aware of the necessity of screening. Concerning barriers to screening, 'feeling well,' lack of physician endorsement, and difficult access to health care were the most commonly reported inhibitory factors (53.9 %, 52.3 %, and 31.9 %, respectively). The most commonly stated incentivizing factor was physician endorsement (82.3 %). Screening rates for CRC in eligible Jordanians remain low, albeit more than one-third of participants are aware of the necessity of screening. Enhanced awareness of barriers and incentivizing factors should help to prioritize national strategies to improve screening rates.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Women in the UAE Towards Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Breast and cervical cancers represent two important causes of cancer-associated deaths in females. Uptake in prevention towards these cancers remains low in the United Arab Emirates.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to understand the knowledge, attitudes and practices of females residing in the Al Ain city, UAE, towards cervical and breast cancer prevention.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey was conducted with 300 women, aged 30 years and above. The primary outcome measure was cervical and breast cancer prevention knowledge. The knowledge was queried through a number of items, with the resulting aggregate scores categorized into good and low knowledge. Chi-square test was conducted to investigate the association between prevention knowledge and sociodemographic factors. Additional outcomes included attitude towards and uptake of cervical and breast cancer screening.

RESULTS

Of the participants surveyed, 36.7% had good knowledge on breast cancer prevention, while 5.3% on cervical cancer prevention. Although the majority of the participants believed that prevention methods could save lives, they reported negative attitudes, considering screening unnecessary and painful. The self-reported screening uptake was 23% and 31.3% for mammography and Pap smear, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The study reported that the knowledge and uptake of women was low for both breast and cervical cancer prevention. Targeted campaigns not only to increase knowledge but also to resolve misconceptions to change negative attitudes may lead to an increase in uptake.

Cancers preventive practice and the determinants in Amhara regional state, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. In Ethiopia, 5.8% of deaths are attributed to cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the cancers preventive practice and associated factors in North West Ethiopia, 2019.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Bahir Dar city residents. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 845 study participants. Data were collected through a validated interviewer administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was adapted from the American cancer association cancer prevention toolkit. Descriptive statistics were computed and presented in charts and texts. The model fitness was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit (P > 0.05). Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with cancer preventive practice. A p-value < 0.2 at bivariate analysis was candidate variables for multivariable logistic regression analysis. Finally, p-value of < 0.05 was considered as a statistically significant predictor for cancer preventive practice at the 95% confidence interval.

Result

A total of 845 study participants took part in the study. Nearly 63% of the respondents were females. About 28% (95%CI: 24, 30) of the study participants had good preventive practice. Age ≥ 45 years (AOR = 0.31; 95%CI: 0.15, 0.62), female (AOR = 0.50, 95%CI: 0.35, 0.71) family member with cancer (AOR = 1.68, 95%CI: 1.07, 2.62) and had good knowledge (AOR = 1.66, 95%CI: 1.14, 2.42) were the identified determinants of cancer preventive practices.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the level of cancer preventive practices was low. Family member with cancer, knowledge about cancer, older age, and being female were significantly associated with cancer preventive practices. This finding underscores the importance of interventions to enhance cancer preventive practices.

Knowledge, attitudes, and perception toward human papillomavirus among health profession students: A cross-sectional study in King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer (CC) in women of reproductive age. Despite advances in treatment and prevention of CC by HPV vaccination, very few women utilize them because of a lack of awareness about HPV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted this cross-sectional study among Health Professions Students (HPS) at King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah. Data were collected using a predesigned and validated study questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of HPS toward HPV.

RESULTS

A total of 580 HPS responded to the survey; 128 (22.1%) were male, while 452 (77.9%) were female with the mean age ± standard deviation 20.36 ± 1.74 years. There was no significant difference between males and females related to screening of HPV and CC (82.8%; 82.3%). A minority (30.3%) of participants thought that HPV infection leads to CC, while 38.3% did not know about it. Furthermore, knowledge about HPV screening and vaccination was poor.

CONCLUSIONS

Students from the college of medicine had more knowledge and awareness about HPV (34.9%, P < 0.001). Thus, it is important to implement effective education programs, curricular activities, and awareness campaigns for health professions to augment the learning process effectively.

Clinical and Therapeutic Characteristics of Cancer Patients in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aims: Due to the continuous changes in modern lifestyle and the need to explore the effect of these changes on the risk of developing cancer, ongoing research on the epidemiology and characteristics of cancer patients is requested. This study explored the epidemiology of cancer, its characteristics, treatment patterns, and risk factors in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using cancer patients’ medical records at Asir Central Hospital in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. Active patients’ records were extracted between January 2013 and December 2019. Results: A total of 2038 patients were identified during the study period, with a mean age of 60.9 (SD: 19.0) years. The patients had survived with their cancer for a median duration of 4 years (IQR: 2–6). Around 4.6% of the patients required ICU admission with a median period of 9 days (IQR: 5–14.75). The death rate during the study period was 10.9%. Around 20.8% of the cases were metastatic, of which 77.8% were at stage four of metastasis, and 19.7% of the patients were receiving chemotherapy for their disease. The most common types of cancer were malignant neoplasms of digestive organs, comprising 40.8% of the sample. Older age (60 years and above) and using specific chronic disease medications were predictors associated with a higher risk of death due to cancer (p < 0.05). Smoking history, using specific chronic disease medications, and having previous surgery were predictors associated with a higher risk of ICU admission (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Breast, colon, and liver cancers were the most prevalent in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. Several modifiable cancer risk factors were identified. The results of this study should support decision-makers in the initiation of programs for key modifiable risk factors that enhance lifestyle changes and reduce cancer risks.

Knowledge and attitude among outpatient women visiting a healthcare center in northern Iran regarding breast self-examination: a cross-sectional study

Purpose

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. This study aimed to compare the level of knowledge and attitude of females regarding Breast cancer and to determine the role of knowledge, attitude and barriers in performing regular self-examination.

Design/methodology/approach

Non-physician females aged 18 years old or above were enrolled in this cross-sectional study in two groups of usual clients and healthcare staff from January 2018 to January 2019 from a healthcare center in Sari, a major city in the northern district of Iran. A questionnaire was used to score the participants’ knowledge and attitude levels using questions about the participants' knowledge and attitude towards Breast cancer along with their status on Breast self-examination and barriers. Mean scores were used for statistical analysis using SPSS V25. p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Findings

A final dataset of 279 females were collected. A significant difference in the knowledge and attitude regarding breast cancer was found between the two study groups (p < 0.001). The practice of BSE was significantly lower in the usual clients compared to non-physician healthcare staff (p < 0.001). The most frequent barriers for not performing a regular BSE were fear of finding a mass in usual clients (17.8%) and lack of confidence in healthcare staff (3.8%).

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include single-centered sample selection.

Practical implications

Given the importance of early detection in breast cancer prevention and the general taboo regarding breast cancer screening methods in certain parts of the world, leading to poor results in early detection and prevention, the authors believe that it is of superior importance to address and promote positive attitudes in general population towards breast self-examination.

Originality/value

Given the importance of early detection in breast cancer prevention, and the general taboo regarding breast cancer screening methods in certain parts of the world, leading to poor results in early detection and prevention, the authors believe that it is of superior importance to address and promote positive attitudes in general population toward breast self-examination. The authors of this study believe that the manuscript represents honest and original work.

Awareness of Common Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms in Saudi Arabia: A Community-Based Study

Objective:

To assess the level of cancer awareness and the relationship between the awareness of common cancer symptoms and risk factors and the sample’s sociodemographic profile.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Tabuk city, a convenient sample of 675 participants completed a questionnaire about common factors causing cancer and symptoms related to cancer. Descriptive statistics and chi-squared analysis were used to measure sample characteristics and their association with knowledge of cancer risk factors and symptoms.

Results:

Level of education and family history were significantly related to awareness of cancer risk factors (P= 0.017) and (P= 0.048), respectively. Factors were significantly associated with awareness of cancer symptoms include Gender (P=0.000), nationality (P=0.013), and undergoing regular cancer screening tests (0.008). Internet was the primary source of information about cancer and related significantly to knowledge about cancer symptoms(P=0.000) and risk factors(P=0.00). More than half of the sample scored poorly for knowledge of both cancer risk factors (58.7%) and symptoms (66.2%) in terms of the overall level of cancer awareness. Smoking and heredity were the most identifiable cancer risk factors, and unexplained pain and weight loss were identified by the majority of study participants.

Conclusion:

The level of community knowledge requires further investigation, and more cancer awareness programs need to be conducted. People could be encouraged to use reliable sources of information to obtain accurate cancer information.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Toward Prostate Cancer and Its Screening Methods Among Primary Care Patients in King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward prostate cancer and its screening methods among patients attending primary care facilities in King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a random sample of 385 men. The questionnaire was distributed using a non-random sampling method (convenience sampling) that included 13 questions that assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of adult male patients toward prostate cancer and its screening methods. The questions were divided into three general questions that test the knowledge, four questions that analyze patients’ opinions (attitude), and six questions on how patients are practicing screening methods with questions three and six being dependent on the answers to the questions that come before them.

Results

Around 64% of the participants had adequate knowledge about prostate cancer. Respondents with higher socioeconomic status demonstrated a higher level of knowledge about prostate cancer than the other groups. Regarding the attitude, more than 70% of the respondents believed that it is very important to screen for prostate cancer. About 23% of the participants had done some form of prostate screening test either prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or digital rectal exam (DRE); most of them were men older than 50 years.

Conclusions

The majority of the respondents to our survey demonstrated high general knowledge about prostate cancer. However, practice toward prostate screening methods was significantly low regardless of the positive attitude on the importance of screening. More data should be obtained to investigate the potential multifactorial reasons for such a low practice.

A Cross-Sectional Study about Knowledge, Awareness and Perception of Risk Factors for Cancer among Cancer-Patients Relatives and Healthy Adults in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Background and Aims:

Although cancer is common in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam, the community awareness is still unknown. The primary objective of this study was to examine and compare the knowledge and risk perceptions of cancer possessed by cancer patients - relatives and healthy adults in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2019. Cancer patients and their relatives were drawn from those who were hospitalized in the Oncology Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City. Healthy individuals were those without a known diagnosis of cancer, and they were drawn from the participants of the Vietnam Osteoporosis Study. A total of 533 participants including 249 patients and relatives (cancerous group) and 284 healthy individuals (healthy group), were asked to respond to a structured questionnaire that was comprised of items concerning cancer knowledge, risk factor perception, and general attitude towards cancer, using Yes, No, or Likert Scale for response.

Results:

The findings showed that patients hold poorer knowledge of pathology, signs, symptoms, prevention, and treatment and lower awareness of risk factors but more positive attitude towards cancer as compared to their healthy counterparts. Overall, both groups varied in their cancer knowledge, with many areas remain to be improved.

Conclusions:

Knowledge about cancer and its risk factors should be improved among the general population as well as among those with direct experiences with cancer. Practical implications: The findings provided by this study has major implications for the design of an educational program for cancer patients in clinical settings and awareness programs for the general public as a primary preventive measure for mitigating the cancer burden. Future studies with larger and more diverse samples or qualitative studies exploring the personal narratives of people living with cancer could take advantage from the preliminary data provided by this study.

Women's Breast Cancer Knowledge and Health Communication in the United Arab Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), women’s participation in breast cancer screening is low, and women are commonly diagnosed in advanced stages. This study investigated women’s attitudes towards breast cancer screening, their use of health services in the UAE emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, and their preferred medium for breast cancer information. In this qualitative study, six focus groups were conducted with Emirati (n = 28) and non-Emirati (n = 26) women as Ras Al Khaimah is a highly multi-cultural region. Women were separated into different age groups (25–34, 30–44, 44+) so as to obtain perspectives of young (n = 16), middle (n = 19), and older women (n = 19). The focus group transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Women recognised that any breast change should be checked by a doctor, and that women with symptoms or those at higher risk may need to have breast screening earlier than the recommended starting age. However, participants wanted more information from doctors or other health personnel. Women had observed breast cancer information and campaigns advertisements in multiple media but recommended greater use of social media and WhatsApp to disseminate information. Overall, women had positive attitudes towards breast cancer screening but wanted more breast cancer awareness campaigns year-round and better access to screening.

Psychosocial Aspects of Female Breast Cancer in the Middle East and North Africa

Breast cancer, the most common cancer among women in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is associated with social and psychological implications deriving from women's socio-cultural contexts. Examining 74 articles published between 2007 and 2019, this literature/narrative review explores the psychosocial aspects of female breast cancer in the MENA region. It highlights socio-cultural barriers to seeking help and socio-political factors influencing women's experience with the disease. In 17 of 22 Arab countries, common findings emerge which derive from shared cultural values. Findings indicate that women lack knowledge of breast cancer screening (BCS) and breast cancer self-examination (BSE) benefits/techniques due to a lack of physicians' recommendations, fear, embarrassment, cultural beliefs, and a lack of formal and informal support systems. Women in rural areas or with low socioeconomic status further lack access to health services. Women with breast cancer, report low self-esteem due to gender dynamics and a tendency towards fatalism. Collaboration between mass media, health and education systems, and leading social-religious figures plays a major role in overcoming psychological and cultural barriers, including beliefs surrounding pain, fear, embarrassment, and modesty, particularly for women of lower socioeconomic status and women living in crises and conflict zones.

Awareness of prostate cancer diagnosis and management among Turkish males: a cross sectional study from Çorum

Introduction: Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy among men in the United States and the second most common cancer in Turkey. The incidence of prostate cancer is increasing in industrialized countries.Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge about prostate cancer, its diagnosis, and treatment among patients with lower urinary tract symptoms.Methods: This study was performed from January to April 2015 with the patients applied to our clinic. A questionnaire that includes 10 questions was administered to the participants.Results: One hundred fifty-nine participants were included in this study. The participants' ages were between 40 and 82 with a mean age of 61.5 ± 7.9 years. Patient awareness of prostate biopsy and prostate cancer were 21.37 and 71.06%. The main origin awareness of PSA testing is family and friends. On the other hand, if the doctor advises acout prostate biopsy, 47.16% of the patients would accept and 11.31% of them would refuse this invasive procedure.Conclusion: Prostate cancer is one of the important health-related problem among men in the world. Additional researches are needed to investigate the knowledge of prostate cancer among men and the Ministry of Health may take preventive methods to increase the cancer knowledge level of people.

Perceived Fears, Barriers, and Benefits Regarding Breast Cancer Screening: A Comparison of Lebanese and Lebanese-American Women

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among Lebanese women, and nearly half of these women are age < 50 years at diagnosis. Despite the current screening guidelines in Lebanon to start mammograms at 40 years of age, monthly self-breast examination, and yearly clinical breast examination, compliance with these recommendations remains low in both Lebanese and Lebanese-American women. This study aimed to examine different factors associated with breast cancer screening compliance in Lebanese and Lebanese-American women and determine and compare factors that predict breast cancer screening for these 2 groups. A cross-sectional study design was used to examine the factors associated with breast cancer screening compliance in Lebanese and Lebanese-American women. A total of 250 Lebanese women and 105 Lebanese-American women completed the questionnaires. Of these, 74.3% of Lebanese-American women and 72.5% of Lebanese women had ever had a mammogram, and 58.4% of Lebanese women had had a clinical breast examination, compared with 84.8% of Lebanese-American women. In both groups, health care provider recommendation was a predictor of having had a mammogram. Although the breast cancer screening practices of both groups are higher than previously reported, they continue to fall below the recommended rate of 81% according to the Healthy People Project. Given the susceptibility of Lebanese women age > 40 years to develop breast cancer, promotional breast cancer screening campaigns must emphasize the importance of adhering to screening guidelines for both Lebanese and Lebanese-American women.

Uptake of breast and cervical cancer screening in four Gulf Cooperation Council countries

In Gulf Cooperation Council States, there is limited information on national levels of mammography and Pap smear screening uptake. The aim of this study is to provide a baseline for national estimates for mammography and Pap smear screening and to explore associations between screening uptake and socioeconomic factors. The nationally representative World Health Survey Plus, implemented in 2008/2009 in Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE), was used. Uptake of mammography and Pap smear was estimated for each country, followed by the examination of associations between screening and a range of socioeconomic variables. Levels of breast and cervical cancer screening uptake within recommended intervals in all countries were low. The percentages of women aged 40-75 years who had a mammogram were 4.9% in Saudi Arabia, 8.9% in Oman, 13.9% in the UAE and 14.6% in Kuwait. The percentages of women aged 25-49 years who had a Pap smear test were 7.6% in Saudi Arabia, 10.6% in Oman, 17.7% in Kuwait and 28.0% in the UAE. Marital status, wealth, education, nationality and place of residence are associated with screening uptake, with the lower educated, poor and unmarried having the lowest percentages of uptake. The four Gulf Cooperation Council countries need to set clear targets and increase the proportion of women who have regular breast and cervical cancer screening examinations. Health education campaigns and awareness programmes that are fully integrated into the health system are required to ensure women use services that are available to prevent breast and cervical cancers.

Breast Cancer Awareness among Female School Teachers in Saudi Arabia: A Population Based Survey

Introduction:

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent malignancy in women and second leading cause of cancer related death worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, it is the ninth leading cause of death. Few studies have been conducted to address BC awareness in KSA in general and to our knowledge, this is the first to be conducted in the Makkah region.

Aim:

To assess the level of awareness, knowledge and attitude of Saudi female teachers towards BC, in primary intermediate and secondary schools within the Makkah region.

Method and Materials:

The study proposal was approved by the Research Ethical Committee in the faculty of medicine, at Umm Al-Qura University. A self-administered questionnaire on BC was designed and tested. The questionnaire consisted of 23 items and covered four domains (awareness about the etiology, knowledge about BC risk factors, symptoms, knowledge about diagnosis and treatment& attitude toward screening). A sample of 400 female school teachers (working in primary, intermediate and secondary schools) were selected by multistage, random sampling. A selection of forty schools, with a sample of 10 teachers from each, was chosen at random in Makkah. Proper permission was obtained from the authorities. the questionnaire was filled out by each participant. The collected data was statistically analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results:

The results showed that knowledge and attitude about BC amongst the female teachers differed significantly by age and marital status. Those aged 46-55 (F=8.5, p>0.002) and those who are married (F=2.7, p>0.04) had more knowledge about BC than others. The majority of respondents had a limited level of knowledge and understanding of BC symptoms (Table 2). However, it also showed that the teachers are very enthusiastic to learn about BC, and its prevention. Most participants (40/%) reported that they had not performed any breast exams before.

Conclusions and Recommendation:

This study indicated that Saudi female teachers’ level of knowledge of BC is inadequate. Introducing and developing an effective health education program in female schools within KSA is recommended.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Lung Cancer Risk Factors in West Bandung Society

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, so prevention of lung cancer is necessary. The aim of this study was to measure level of knowledge, attitude, and actions concerning risk factors of lung cancer in West Bandung.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research was conducted by quantitative study design with a quasi-experimental approach. Measurement of respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and actions was carried out by giving questionnaires of knowledge, attitudes, and actions. Questionnaires were given to respondents before and after providing education about risk factors of lung cancer. Respondents were from 42 societies in Bandung. The data obtained were tested by using comparison and correlation test.

RESULTS

The results showed a significant difference between knowledge and attitudes (P = 0.001). Meanwhile, the action did not change significantly (P > 0.05). Correlation test showed that knowledge and attitude had a correlation of P = 0.001 in the pretest and P = 0.23 (P < 0.05) in the posttest.

CONCLUSION

This research concludes that the level of knowledge and attitudes toward risk factors of lung cancer has increased.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to breast cancer screening among female health care professionals: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Incidence of breast cancer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has increased in recent years. Screening helps in early detection of cancer and early diagnosis and timely treatment of breast cancer lead to a better prognosis. Women in the healthcare profession can have a positive impact on the attitudes, beliefs, and practices of general public. Therefore, it is important that the healthcare workers themselves have adequate knowledge and positive attitudes. We conducted a study to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to breast cancer screening among female healthcare professionals.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on female health professional of KFMC (King Fahad Medical City). Data was collected using a pre-designed, tested, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included specific sections to test the participants' knowledge, attitude, and practices related to cervical cancer and its screening. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 395 health care workers participated in this study. The mean age of the participants was 34.7 years. Participants included physicians (n = 63, 16.0%), nurses (n = 261, 66.1%), and allied health workers (n = 71, 18.0%). Only 6 (1.5%) participants had a good level of knowledge of breast cancer and 104 (26.8%) participants demonstrated a fair level of knowledge. Overall, 370 (93.7%), 339 (85.8%), and 368 (93.2%) participants had heard of breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, and mammography, respectively. A total of 295 (74.7%) participants reported practicing breast self-examination, 95 (24.1%) had undergone clinical breast examination, and 74 (18.7%) had ever undergone mammography.

CONCLUSION

The knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to breast cancer screening were found to be lower than expected. Active steps are required to develop educational programs for the health care staff, which might empower them to spread the knowledge and positively influence the attitudes of female patients in the hospital.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Women in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia Regarding Cervical Cancer and the Pap Smear Test

Background:

The main barrier for women to receive Papanicolaou (Pap) smear tests and immunization is lack of knowledge about the disease’s signs and symptoms, women’s attitudes toward prevention programs and cultural myths and beliefs. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to measure women’s knowledge, attitudes and practices about cervical cancer and the Pap smear test in the southern region of Saudi Arabia and to assess the findings in relation with women’s demographics.

Methods:

A cross sectional survey was conducted at the Armed Forces Hospital Southern Region Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic using a self-administered questionnaire with a sample size of 255 women between the ages of 15 and 65 years.

Results:

Forty-three percent of the women in this region are aware of cervical cancer, but do not recognize its risk factors, implications, timing or main cause, which is Human papillomavirus (HPV). In fact, the primary source of information was obtained through social media. Only two women conducted Pap smear test and that was based on doctor’s referral, where women’s main reason from not conducting the test was feeling good and no need.

Conclusions:

There is a need, therefore, to create awareness programs for cervical cancer, its causes and risk factors, as well as its preventive measures for women in the southern region of Saudi Arabia.

Health Damaged Context: Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening from Viewpoint of Iranian Health Volunteers

Background

Breast cancer is common among cancer diseases and the second leading cause of death among women worldwide. The breast cancer-caused death is directly associated with diagnosis time of the disease. Screening is one of the major methods for health promotion in human societies. However, many women still refuse to do the periodic screening. The present study is aimed to analyze the experiences of health volunteers in order to understand the barriers to breast cancer screening among women at southeast of Iran.

Methods

Data collection was performed through focus groups. Using the purposive sampling method, 24 participants were selected and then were allocated to 6-member groups. The data were analysed using Lundman and Graneheim qualitative content analysis.

Results

The main theme of “Health Damage Context” was extracted with four main categories, including: family barriers, cultural and social barriers, personal barriers and organizational barriers.

Conclusion

Based on the results of the present study, there are numerous barriers to regular breast cancer screening, and for the same reasons, the willingness to screening is sometimes not satisfactory. Therefore, in case of the women’s referral to health centers, nurses and other health-care professionals should inform them about the role of different screening methods in early diagnosis and rapid treatment of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Knowledge and Screening Practice and Barriers Among Women in Madinah, Saudi Arabia

A breast screening program may help to reduce cancer mortality rates among women. However, the use of the screening program by women in Madinah city is low, and studies examining its practice and barriers of low uptake are sparse. To identify breast cancer knowledge, practice and screening barriers among women attending primary health centers (PHC) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. A primary health center-based cross-sectional study was performed in Madinah city in 2015. A multistage stratified cluster sample was obtained and included 465 women (15 years and older) from five PHC. Data concerning socio-demographics, knowledge about breast cancer, and practice and barriers of mammography use were collected using a structured questionnaire. The mean age of the studied 465 women was 34.9 ± 12.2 years. Of these women, 27.7 and 38.5 % received mammography and performed breast self-examination, respectively. A high level of poor knowledge about breast cancer was detected in the overall studied women and those who never received a mammography, particularly knowledge related to the risk factors of breast cancer. The most important predictors of the barriers to mammography were incorrect beliefs about mammography and its procedures. A belief that mammography is painful was significantly associated with a 56 % reduction in its use (OR = 0.44; 95 % CI = 0.22-0.88). The high levels of poor knowledge about cancer breast observed in this study reflect the need for greater efforts to increase breast awareness education.

Differences in Perception of Breast Cancer Among Muslim and Christian Women in Ghana

Purpose

The burden of breast cancer continues to increase in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where women present with more advanced disease and have worse outcomes compared with women from high-income countries. In the absence of breast cancer screening in LMICs, patients must rely on self-detection for early breast cancer detection, followed by a prompt clinical diagnostic work-up. Little is known about the influence of religious beliefs on women’s perceptions and practices of breast health.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was administered to female members of Islamic and Christian organizations in Ghana. Participants were asked about their personal experience with breast concerns, knowledge of breast cancer, performance of breast self-examination, and experience with clinical breast exam.

Results

The survey was administered to 432 Muslim and 339 Christian women. Fewer Muslim women knew someone with breast cancer (31% v 66%; P < .001) or had previously identified a concerning mass in their breast (16% v 65%; P < .001). Both groups believed that new breast masses should be evaluated at clinic (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.08; 95% CI, 0.58 to 2.01), but Muslim women were less likely to know that breast cancer can be effectively treated (AOR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.50). Muslim women were less likely to have performed breast self-examination (AOR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.88) or to have undergone clinical breast exam (AOR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.84).

Conclusion

Muslim women were found to be less likely to participate in breast health activities compared with Christian women, which highlights the need to consider how religious customs within subpopulations might impact a woman’s engagement in breast health activities. As breast awareness initiatives are scaled up in Ghana and other LMICs, it is essential to consider the unique perception and participation deficits of specific groups.

Cancer Incidence in Saudi Arabia: 2012 Data from the Saudi Cancer Registry

Background: In order to most appropriately allocate healthcare and research funding for cancer, it is important to have accurate population-based incidence data. The Saudi Cancer Registry (SCR) provides such information, covering the time period from 1994 to the present day. The current report concerns an overview of cancer incidence statistics for Saudi Arabia in 2012. Methods: The SCR collects data from healthcare facilities throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. All newly diagnosed cases of cancer are recorded, with information on site and histology. For the present report, age-standardised and age-specific incidence rates (ASR, AIR, respectively) were calculated, with attention to gender-specific and regional differences. Results: The total number of incident cases of cancer identified by the SCR in 2012 was 14,336, with 6,791 (47.5%) among males and 7,545 (52.6%) among females. Of this total, 11,034 cases (76.9%) occurred in patients of Saudi origin. For Saudi males, the overall ASR (inc. all cancer sites) was 78.1 per 100,000 people, while that for females was 86.7. Incidence varied by region, with the Eastern region and Riyadh displaying the highest ASRs for both males and females, and Hail and Jazan displaying the lowest. Incidence varied by gender, with colorectal cancer (13.3%), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL; 8.4%), and leukaemia (8.2%) being the most common types in males, and breast (25.8%), thyroid (11.7%), and colorectal cancers (9.3%) being the most common in females. Conclusions: This analysis of cancer incidence in Saudi Arabia demonstrated significant differences according to gender, age, and region of the Kingdom. The data should help ensure the most appropriate allocation of resources, with the aim of minimising the healthcare burden associated with cancer.

Cultural Beliefs and Attitudes About Breast Cancer and Screening Practices Among Arabic Women in Australia

BACKGROUND

Arabic women have been consistently reported as having remarkably low participation rates in breast cancer screening measures in their home countries and after migration to Western countries. Little is known about the screening behaviors of Arabic women in Australia.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to report breast cancer screening practices among Arabic women in Australia and to examine the relationship between (1) demographic factors and (2) the Arabic version of the Breast Cancer Screening Beliefs Questionnaire (BCSBQ) score and women's breast screening behaviors.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional method was used. Both English and Arabic versions of the BCSBQ were administered to the 251 Arabic Australian women 18 years or older who participated in the study.

RESULTS

The majority of participants (62.9%-92%) had heard of breast awareness, clinical breast examination, and mammography. However, only 7.6% practiced breast awareness monthly, 21.4% had undergone clinical breast examination annually, and 40.3% had biannual mammography. Length of stay in Australia, being retired, and being unemployed were positively associated with the recommended performance of breast awareness and mammography. In terms of BCSBQ scores, women who engaged in the 3 screening practices had significantly higher scores on the attitudes to health check-ups and barriers to mammography subscales.

CONCLUSION

Attitudes toward health check-ups and perceived barriers to mammography were important determinants of breast cancer screening practices among Arabic Australian women.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

To fully understand barriers discouraging Arabic Australian women from participating in breast cancer screening practices, efforts should be focused on specific subgroup (ie, working group) of Arabic Australian women.

Sociocultural Influences on Arab Women's Participation in Breast Cancer Screening in Qatar

Breast cancer, the most common cancer among Arab women in Qatar, significantly affects the morbidity and mortality of Arab women largely because of low participation rates in breast cancer screening. We used a critical ethnographic approach to uncover and describe factors that influence Arab women's breast cancer screening practices. We conducted semistructured interviews with 15 health care practitioners in Qatar. Through thematic analysis of the data, we found three major factors influencing breast cancer screening practices: (a) beliefs, attitudes, and practices regarding women's bodies, health, and illness; (b) religious beliefs and a culturally sensitive health care structure; and (c) culturally specific gender relations and roles. Arab women's health practices cannot be understood in isolation from the sociocultural environment. The problem of low rates of breast cancer screening practices and supportive interventions must be addressed within the context and not be limited to the individual.

Colon Cancer among Older Saudis: Awareness of Risk Factors and Early Signs, and Perceived Barriers to Screening

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer screening (CRCS) uptake is markedly affected by public awareness of the disease. This study was conducted to assess levels of knowledge of CRC, to explore the pattern of CRCS uptake and identify possible barriers to screening among Saudis older than 50 years of age and primary care providers (PCPs) in Al Hassa region, Saudi Arabia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected primary health care (PHC) centers, 884 Saudis and 39 PCPs being enrolled for data collection. Structured interviews were conducted to obtain information regarding socio-demographic characteristics, personal information relevant to CRC, awareness about early signs/symptoms and risk factors, and barriers to CRCS. Also, a self- administered data collection form was used to assess barriers to CRCS from the physicians' perspectives.

RESULTS

More than 66% of participants were lacking knowledge about CRC. Participants with higher educational levels, having ever heard about CRC, and having relatives with CRC had a significantly higher awareness of the disease. The rate of reported CRCS was low (8.6%). After conducting a logistic regression analysis, it was observed that female gender (OR=0.28; 95% CI=0.14-0.57; P=0.001), being unmarried (OR=0.11; 95% CI=0.10-0.23; P=0.001), lower levels of education (OR=0.36; 95% CI=0.16-0.82; P=0.015), and having no relatives with CRC (OR=0.30; 95% CI=0.17-0.56; P=0.001) were significantly associated with a lower CRCS uptake. There was a significant difference between most of the perceived barriers to CRCS and gender. Exploratory factor analysis showed that personal fear (especially fear of the screening results and shyness) was the major factor that hindered CRCS with high loading Eigen value of 2.951, explaining 34.8% of the barriers of the included sample toward utilization of CRCS, followed by lack of awareness of both person and providers (high Eigen value of 2.132, and explaining 23.7% of the barriers). The most frequently cited barriers to CRCS from the physicians' perspectives were lack of public awareness, lack of symptoms and signs, and fear of painful procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor levels of knowledge about CRC were found among older Saudis attending PHC centers in Al Hassa, Saudi Arabia. It is crucial to implement an organized national screening program in Saudi Arabia to increase public awareness.

Understanding breast health awareness in an Arabic culture: qualitative study protocol

AIM

To explore breast health awareness and the early diagnosis and detection methods of breast cancer from the perspective of women and primary healthcare providers in the Jizan region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Although there is a high incidence of advanced breast cancer in young women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there is no standardized information about breast self-examination, or is there a national screening programme involving clinical breast examination and mammography available.

DESIGN

Qualitative exploratory study.

METHODS

Data collection will consist of 36 face-to-face semi-structured interviews: 12 with general practitioners; 12 with nurses at primary healthcare centres and with 12 women who attend the health centres. This study will be carried out in eight states across the Jizan region (four rural and four urban) to reflect the cultural diversity of Jizan. The data will be analysed using thematic content analysis. Research Ethics Committee approval was obtained in June 2015.

DISCUSSION

While we understand the enablers and barriers to breast health awareness outside of Saudi culture, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in rural populations such as Jizan, there is a lack of research. This study will add positively to the international knowledge base of this topic. The findings will give evidence and inform policy about women and healthcare providers' experiences in Jizan, in a society where such topics are taboo.

Knowledge about mammography and associated factors: population surveys with female adults and elderly

The purpose of this paper is to describe the knowledge about mammography and to identify associated factors in female adults and elderly. Data were obtained from two population surveys, one with female adults and another with elderly women from Florianópolis (SC) in 2009 - 2010. A descriptive analysis of the variables was carried out, the appropriate mean of responses about mammography was estimated and crude and adjusted Poisson regression was conducted to identify associated factors. Among adults, 23.1% answered all of the questions appropriately and the appropriate average responses was 7.2 (95%CI 7.1 - 7.3) in a total of 9. In the adjusted model, older age, higher education and income were associated with knowledge about mammography. For the elderly, 15.3% answered all questions appropriately and the average of appropriate responses was 6.4 (95%CI 5.2 - 6.5) and the factors associated with knowledge about mammography in the adjusted model were younger age groups, increased education and income, and identification of mammography as the main diagnostic method for breast cancer. Information about mammography can neither be transmitted in a clear way nor be easily understood; there are also demographic and socioeconomic differences concerning the knowledge about the exam.

Predictors affecting breast self-examination practice among Turkish women

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among females in Turkey. Predictors affecting the breast self-examination (BSE) performance vary in developing countries.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of BSE performance and predictors of self-reported BSEs among women in the capital city of Turkey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 376 Turkish women using a self- administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic variables and BSE-related features.

RESULTS

Of the participants, 78.7% (N=296) reported practicing BSE, whereas 9.5% (N=28) were implementing BSE regularly on a monthly basis, and only 5.7% (N=17) were performing BSE regularly within a week after each menstrual cycle. Multivariate logistic regression modeling revealed that BSE performance was more likely in younger age groups [20-39 years] (p=0.018, OR=3.215) and [40-49 years] (p=0.009, OR=3.162), women having a family history of breast disease (p=0.038, OR=2.028), and housewives (p=0.013, OR=0.353).

CONCLUSIONS

Although it appears that the rates of BSE performers are high, the number of women conducting appropriate BSE on a regular time interval basis is lower than expected. Younger age groups, family history of breast diseases and not being employed were identified as significant predictors of practicing BSE appropriately. Older age and employment were risk factors for not performing BSE in this sample.

Awareness and prevalence of mammography screening and its predictors--a cross sectional study in a primary care clinic in Malaysia

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, over half a million women died of breast cancer in 2011 alone. Mammography screening is associated with a reduction of 20 to 35% in breast cancer mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the awareness and practice of mammography screening and predictors of its uptake in Malaysian women attending a primary care clinic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out among women aged 40 to 74 years attending a primary care clinic in Selangor, Malaysia. An assisted structured questionnaire included questions on socio-demography, source of information and level of knowledge. An adapted version of the revised Champion Health Belief Model Scale plus other associated factors for mammography screening up-take were also included as part of the questionnaire. Predictors for mammography screening uptake were only determined in those who were aware about mammography screening. Significant predictors were determined by logistic regression.

RESULTS

447 women were recruited for this study; 99.1% of them (n: 411) were aware about breast cancer. Only 50.1% (n: 206) had knowledge about mammography screening. Prevalence of clinical breast-examination (CBE) was 23.3% (n: 104) and mammography screening up-take was 13.2% (n: 59). The predictors for the latter were those who have had clinical breast-examination (aOR=17.58, 95%CI: 7.68-39.82) and those aged between 50 to 59 years (aOR=3.94, 95%CI: 1.61-9.66) as well as those aged 60 years and above (aOR=6.91, 95%CI: 2.28-20.94). Good knowledge and positive beliefs about mammography screening were not associated with mammography screening uptake.

CONCLUSIONS

Half of our Malaysian women were aware about mammography screening. However, the uptake of mammography was low. Previous CBE and older age were significant predictors of mammography screening uptake. Increasing CBE services may increase compliance with guidelines.

Prostate Cancer in the Arab World: A View From the Inside

The rates of prostate cancer vary by more than 50-fold across different international populations. The aim of this review was to explore the differences in epidemiology and risk factors between the Middle Eastern Arab countries and some of the developed countries in Europe and North America. The age-standardized incidence rate of prostate cancer in the Arab countries is still lower than that in the Western countries, but is steadily increasing with time. Several factors come into play to explain this difference. There are health care systems-related factors such as the lack of good population-based registries, and population-related factors. The latter include the relatively young age structure in the Arab countries, lower reported androgen and prostate-specific antigen levels in Arab men, the effect of genetic differences on prostate cancer risk, the metabolic syndrome paradox, and the protective effect of the Mediterranean diet on a subset of the Arab population. In conclusion, the study of prostate cancer in the Arab world represents a challenge with the currently available cancer care systems and the increase in the burden of the disease. A multinational prospective study to investigate the epidemiology of prostate cancer in the Middle East, with specific attention to country/geographic variability along with a comparative analysis to that of the Western hemisphere is needed.

Knowledge and attitude of the population toward cancer prostate Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Aims:

The aim of the following study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of men, in our region, regarding cancer prostate and its screening practices.

Subjects and Methods:

The field work was conducted in Riyadh City, during the period February through July 2011. It was a population - based cross-sectional study comprising 400 men over 40 years. In addition to socio-demographic data, history of the present and past medical illness, history of prostatic diseases and examination, family history of cancer prostate; participants were inquired about their knowledge and attitude toward prostate cancer (PC) and screening behavior using through two different Likert scales.

Results:

Only 10% of the respondents had practiced a regular PC examination checkup. Their knowledge about PC was poor and their attitude toward examination and screening was fair, where the mean of total correct knowledge score was 10.25 ± 2.5 (51.25%), while the mean of total attitude score was 18.3 ± 4.08 (65.3%). The respondents identified the physicians as the main sources of this information (62.4%), though they were not the main motives for a regular checkup. Knowledge represented the only significant predictor for participants’ attitude.

Conclusion:

Beliefs and attitudes have a great impact, at every stage of the cancer continuum, this attitudes depends mainly on level of knowledge and quantity of information provided to patients and their families. Such attitudes should rely on a solid background of proper information and motivation from physicians to enhance and empower attitudes toward PC screening behavior.

Do socioeconomic factors influence breast cancer screening practices among Arab women in Qatar?

OBJECTIVES

Breast cancer incidence rates are rising in Qatar. Although the Qatari government provides subsidised healthcare and screening programmes that reduce cost barriers for residents, breast cancer screening (BCS) practices among women remain low. This study explores the influence of socioeconomic status on BCS among Arab women in Qatar.

SETTING

A multicentre, cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted with 1063 Arab women (87.5% response rate) in Qatar from March 2011 to July 2011. Women who were 35 years or older and had lived in Qatar for at least 10 years were recruited from seven primary healthcare centres and women's health clinics in urban and semiurban regions of Qatar. Associations between socioeconomic factors and BCS practice were estimated using χ(2) tests and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Findings indicate that less than one-third of the participants practised BCS appropriately, whereas less than half of the participants were familiar with recent BCS guidelines. Married women and women with higher education and income levels were significantly more likely to be aware of and to practise BCS than women who had lower education and income levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate low levels of awareness and low participation rates in BCS among Arab women in Qatar. Socioeconomic factors influence these women's participation in BCS activities. The strongest predictors for BCS practice are higher education and higher income levels.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Additional research is needed to explore the impact of economic factors on healthcare seeking behaviours in the Middle Eastern countries that have a high national gross domestic product where healthcare services are free or heavily subsidised by the government; promotion of BCS and intervention strategies in these countries should focus on raising awareness about breast cancer, the cost and benefit of early screening for this disease, particularly among low-income women.

Does the increasing trend of colorectal cancer incidence in jeddah reflect a rise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to outline the trend in the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the city of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), for comparison with previously published national CRC data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective data analysis was performed on all cases of CRC diagnosed between January 2000 and December 2006 amongst Saudi patients in Jeddah using data retrieved from the Saudi Cancer Registry (SCR). Descriptive analysis was performed and results were compared to national CRC data from the SCR.

RESULTS

In Jeddah, 644 cases of CRC were diagnosed during the time period, accounting for 15% of all CRC cases in KSA. Males were more commonly affected than females (58% versus 42%). The male preponderance of CRC was similar to that observed at a national level. In Jeddah, the incidence was higher among those >45 years (77.0%), and the mean age at diagnosis was 57 years. At diagnosis, 10% of patients presented with localized disease; 25% presented with distant metastasis and the remaining patients had various stages of regional extension. Adenocarcinomas accounted for 72% of cases. Statistical analysis did not reveal any clinically significant differences between cases diagnosed in Jeddah and those diagnosed throughout KSA.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased trend in the incidence of CRC in Jeddah between 2000 and 2006 mirrors the recent trend in KSA. This highlights the magnitude of this healthcare hazard, not only in Jeddah, but also across the country and supports the need for preventive measures and early detection of the disease.

Beliefs and attitudes about breast cancer and screening practices among Arab women living in Qatar: a cross-sectional study

Background

Despite rising breast cancer incidence and mortality rates, breast cancer screening (BCS) rates among women in Qatar remain low. Previous studies indicate the need to better understand the many complex beliefs, values, and attitudes that influence Arab women’s health seeking behavior for the development of culturally appropriate and effective intervention strategies to address breast cancer in the Middle East. This study investigates beliefs, attitudes, and BCS practices of Arabic-speaking women in Qatar.

Methods

A multicenter, cross-sectional quantitative survey of 1,063 (87.5% response rate) Arabic-speaking female Qatari citizens and non-Qatari residents, 35 years of age or older, was conducted in Qatar from March 2011 to July 2011. Associations between beliefs and BCS practice were estimated using chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Participants who adhered to BCS guidelines (BCS practice = Yes) were compared to those who did not (BCS practice = No).

Results

In addition to low levels of awareness and low participation rates in BCS, one quarter of the participants stated their doctors talked to them about breast cancer, and less than half of the women interviewed believed breast cancer can be prevented. Women who engaged in BCS practice were more likely to have a doctor who talked to them about breast cancer, to believe they were in good–excellent health, that cancer can be prevented, or that cancer might be hereditary. The majority wanted to know if they had cancer and felt their health care needs were being met. The main reasons given for not planning BCS were lack of a doctor’s recommendation, fear, and embarrassment.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that a variety of channels (health care providers, media, breast cancer survivors, community leaders) should be utilized to create culturally appropriate breast cancer intervention programs and increased awareness of breast cancer, BCS, and the benefits of early detection of breast cancer. Employment of these measures will reduce breast cancer mortality rates among Arabic-speaking women living in the State of Qatar.

Breast cancer knowledge and related behaviors among women in Abha City, southwestern Saudi Arabia

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1,092 women attending urban primary health care centers in Abha City southwestern Saudi Arabia about breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, and related practices. Only 22.0% heard about mammography, and 41.5% heard about breast self-examination (BSE). More than half of the women in the study identified changes occurring in case of breast cancer and identified risk factors. Only 8.3% were examined by clinical breast examination (CBE), 6.2% were examined by mammography, and 29.7% performed BSE. The study points to the insufficient knowledge of women and the low practice of BSE, CBE, and mammography. Public awareness should be enhanced by all available means including mass media, schools, social gatherings, and waiting areas in primary health care centers. There is an urgent need for continuing medical education programs for health care workers in the region concerning breast cancer.

Awareness of general public towards cancer prostate and screening practice in Arabic communities: a comparative multi-center study

The current study aimed at exploring the knowledge and beliefs of men aged forty years and over towards prostate cancer screening and early detection in three Arab countries. The field work was conducted in three countries; Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan, during the period February through December 2011. Our target population were men aged 40 years and over. It was a population-based cross sectional study comprising 400 subjects at each site. In addition to socio-demographic data, history of the present and past medical illness, practice history of prostatic cancer examination, family history of cancer prostate; participants were inquired about their knowledge and attitude towards prostate cancer and screening behavior using two different likert scales. The percentage of participants who practiced regular prostate check up ranged from 8-30%. They had poor knowledge and fair attitude towards prostate cancer screening behavior, where the mean total knowledge score was 10.25±2.5, 10.76±3.39 and 11.24±3.39 whereas the mean total attitude score was 18.3±4.08, 20.68±6.4 and 17.96±5.3 for Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan respectively. The respondents identified the physicians as the main sources of this information (62.4%), though they were not the main motives for regular checkup. Knowledge was the only significant predictor for participants' attitude in the multiple regression models. Participants' attitudes depends mainly on level of knowledge and quantity of information provided to the patients and their families. Such attitudes should rely on a solid background of proper information and motivation from physicians to enhance and empower behaviors towards prostate cancer screening practices.

Colorectal cancer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: need for screening

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health problem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Our aim was to characterize the epidemiology of CRC in the Saudi population.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective analysis of all cases of CRC recorded in the Saudi Cancer Registry (SCR) between January 2001 and December 2006 amongst Saudi citizens in KSA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were retrieved from the database of the SCR. Descriptive statistics was performed using SPSS.

RESULTS

A total of 4,201 cases of CRC were registered in the SCR. The incidence of CRC increased between 2001 and 2006. The mean age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 58 years; most patients were above 45 years of age (n=3322; 79.1%). At the time of diagnosis, 977 patients (23.0%) presented with localized disease and 1,018 (24.0%) had distant metastasis. The most frequent pathological variant was adenocarcinoma (73%), with grade 2 (moderately differentiated) being the most common grade among all variants (61%). For all cancer grades, the frequency of CRC was significantly higher among patients >45 years (P=0.004), who presented with more advanced disease (stages III and IV) (P=0.012). Based on logistic regression, age >45 years was associated with advanced regional presentation (P=0.001). Tumor grade was associated with advanced regional presentation and metastasis.

CONCLUSION

There was an increase in the incidence of CRC between 2001 and 2006. The age at the time of diagnosis was low when compared with reports from developed countries. A nationwide approach is needed to encourage and illustrate the importance of screening programs.

Breast cancer screening among Arabic women living in the State of Qatar: Awareness, knowledge, and participation in screening activities

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the State of Qatar, and the incidence rate is rising. Previous findings indicate women in Qatar are often diagnosed with breast cancer at advanced stages and their participation rates in screening activities are low.

Purpose: To investigate within the State of Qatar Arabic women’s knowledge regarding breast cancer and breast cancer screening (BCS) methods and their participation rates in BCS. This paper reports on the results of a cross-sectional survey.

Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional interview survey was conducted with 1,063 Arabic women (Qatari citizens and non-Qatari Arabic-speaking residents), 35 years of age or older, from March 2011 to July 2011.

Results: Of the 1,063 women interviewed (87.5% response rate), 90.7% were aware of breast cancer; 7.6% were assessed with having basic knowledge of BCS, 28.9% were aware of breast self-examination (BSE), 41.8% were aware of clinical breast exams (CBE), and 26.9% were aware of mammograms. Of the women interviewed, 13.8% performed BSE monthly, 31.3% had a CBE once a year or once every two years, and 26.9% of women 40 years of age or older had a mammogram once a year or once every two years. Participation rates in BCS activities were significantly related to awareness and knowledge of BCS, education levels, and receiving information about breast cancer, self-examination or mammography from any of a variety of sources, particularly physicians.

Conclusions: Study results demonstrate that despite the existent breast cancer screening recommendations, less than one-third of Arabic women living in Qatar participate in BCS activities. Public health campaigns encouraging more proactive roles for health care professionals regarding awareness and knowledge of breast cancer, BCS, and the benefits of early detection of breast cancer will help increase screening rates and reduce mortality rates among Arabic women living in the State of Qatar.