Men's knowledge and attitude towards breast cancer in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: To identify men's knowledge and attitude towards early detection of breast cancer.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient clinics of King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Five hundred and fifty participants were selected by systemic randomization. The distributed questionnaire included: demographics, knowledge and its source on breast cancer, beliefs and practice regarding breast self-examination (BSE), mammography, and difficulties that may prevent women from seeking medical help. The questionnaire was filled anonymously and in private.

RESULTS: The response rate was 90.9%, and most were employees (63.2%). Physicians represented 43.4% of the source of knowledge, followed by the internet (40.4%), and last, the media (30.4%). Breast mass was the most common symptom (36.6%), followed by change of breast size (26%) and pain (20.2%), while 24% did not know the symptoms of breast cancer. Approximately 13% believed that all cases of breast cancer ended with mastectomy. Only 57.6% were aware of the importance of BSE in early detection of breast cancer, and approximately 90% did not know the importance of mammography.

CONCLUSION: Awareness campaigns aimed at husbands and men in general are to be strongly considered. They should encourage their wives and families to enroll in awareness and screening campaigns.