Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening Predictors in Young Saudi Women: Findings From a Cross-Sectional Study

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Saudi Arabia, with early detection playing a critical role in improving survival outcomes. However, screening uptake remains suboptimal, particularly among younger women. To address this gap, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of young women in the Jazan region and identify key demographic and behavioral predictors influencing breast cancer screening uptake.

A cross-sectional study (N = 480) was conducted between January and March 2024. A structured, validated questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics and KAP regarding breast cancer. The primary outcomes assessed were knowledge, attitude, and practice scores. Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics, Pearson's correlation, and logistic regression to identify predictors of breast self-examination (BSE).

Most participants were young, single Saudi students residing in urban areas. The mean scores were: knowledge (3.66 ± 0.66), attitude (4.09 ± 0.58), and practice (3.81 ± 0.73). Moderate-to-strong positive correlations were observed between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.569, p < 0.001) and between knowledge and practice (r = 0.567, p < 0.001), indicating meaningful associations among the three domains. Age differences were evident, with both the youngest (< 25 years) and oldest (> 45 years) groups demonstrating comparatively higher knowledge scores. Participants in health-related specializations also showed higher knowledge levels (mean = 3.78 ± 0.66), suggesting a notable effect of academic background. Logistic regression demonstrated that age (26-35 years) substantially increased the likelihood of performing BSE (adjusted OR = 12.422; 95% CI: 1.12-137.95), while having two to three children markedly reduced the odds (adjusted ORs = 0.051-0.065). Additionally, non-Saudi participants had lower odds of practicing BSE (crude OR = 0.212; 95% CI: 0.06-0.72), highlighting demographic disparities in screening behaviors.

Age, education, specialization, and family responsibilities significantly influence women's breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors, including BSE and screening uptake. Targeted, population-specific awareness strategies are essential to enhance early detection practices and reduce the breast cancer burden in the KSA.