Breast cancer screening in Lebanon: Understanding knowledge, attitudes and barriers

• DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2024.101733
• Publication Date: 2024-07-20T15:54:26Z
• Authors: Tamina Elias-Rizk; Elio Issa; Emmanuel Ammanouil; Melissa Abou Khalil; Pascale Salameh; Aniella Abi-Gerges
• Keywords: Champion; Breast Cancer Screening; Demographics; Cancer screening

BackgroundBreast cancer (BC) has been increasing in both prevalence and incidence Lebanon. Knowing the positive impact mammographic screening on reducing mortality rates, we sought to investigate knowledge, attitudes barriers towards BC amongst Lebanese women across all districts.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study with 400 aged 35–75, no prior or current diagnosis of BC, employing an online questionnaire filled face-to-face participants gather sociodemographic data assess history practices. We utilized Breast Cancer Screening Beliefs Questionnaire (BCSBQ) Champion Health Belief Model Scale (CHBMS) evaluate attitudes, barriers.ResultsFindings revealed inadequate general health check-ups (77.5 %) insufficient knowledge (56.4 %). Furthermore, 38.5 % encountered obstacles mammography screening. Education significantly affected knowledge. Interestingly, increased reduced Participants healthcare connections background exhibited better fewer obstacles.ConclusionThis is first that endeavors comprehensively women's concerning screening, encompassing demographics regions using validated scales (BCSBQ CHBMS). Our highlight crucial role education advocating for early necessity reevaluate national campaigns, particularly communication methods, ensure equitable access