Breast health awareness in an Arabic culture: a qualitative exploration

Abstract

Background There is a high incidence of advanced breast cancer (BC) in young women in developing countries including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), but no standardised information regarding breast self-examination, nor a national screening programme. Aim To explore breast health awareness and the early diagnosis and detection methods of BC from the perspective of women and primary healthcare providers (HCPs) in KSA. Methods This qualitative study was conducted in eight states across the Jizan region of KSA. Purposive sampling was used to recruit Saudi women n= (24), general practitioners n= (20) and nurses n= (20). Semi-structured interviews were conducted from November 2015-February 2016. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken. Results The cultural views towards health, BC and its screening were embedded in women's concept of health behaviour. Religious infrastructure informed how Saudis as Muslims should live, react to BC and death, and view their breast health. Health service provision was aimed at reactively treating BC symptoms rather than proactively offering preventative BC strategies. Discussion Women and nurses require knowledge of BC, and early detection methods. HCPs should be engaged in providing education and screening services. National comprehensive policies are required in developing countries including KSA to help inform screening programmes and increase knowledge of BC. Conclusion This study provides new evidence on the complexity of poor breast health awareness and lack of resources in KSA. Additional resources are needed to remove such barriers and provide targeted health education and services in developing countries where breast health services are poorly developed.