Breast Cancer Awareness among Saudi Females in Taif, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the levels of breast cancer awareness among Saudi females, and to compare between house wives and employees women regarding knowledge and practical of breast cancer. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 300 women in Taif city. Data were collected using a self administrated questionnaire which included questions on socio-demographic data, knowledge of risk factors of breast cancer, breast self examination, clinical breast examination and awareness of mammogram. Results: Age of respondents was 16 to 45years, employee (51%), educated (90%) and married (71%). The majority had good knowledge about risk factors of breast cancer and breast self examination (93.3%, 87% respectively) and indicated TV, magazines and breast cancer campaigns as their source of information (33.7%, 29% respectively). No significant difference between employees, house wives and students, regarding breast cancer knowledge (p≥0.05). 73.3% of women were unaware of clinical breast exam and 80.3% of mammogram. Conclusion: Most women were aware of risk factors of breast cancer. However, the knowledge about clinical breast examination and awareness of mammogram were inadequate. It is recommended that the level of knowledge should be raised among women, especially breast cancer screen procedure CBE, and mammogram.