Understanding breast cancer risk factors: is there any mismatch between laywomen perceptions and expert opinions

Abstract

Background Women’s perception and knowledge of breast cancer signs, symptoms, and risk factors could be conducive to breast cancer risk management and interventions. The present study aimed to explore Iranian laywomen perceptions and expert opinions regarding breast cancer risk factors. Methods This qualitative study was conducted from March to November 2019 in Mashhad, northeast of Iran. Through purposive sampling, 24 laywomen (women with and without BC) and 10 experts of different fields including oncology, surgery, gynecology and reproductive health were selected. Data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews, which was mainly focused on the participants’ understanding and perception of BC risk factors. The data was analyzed utilizing conventional content analysis developed by Graneheim & Lundman. Components of trustworthiness, including credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability were considered. Results The main category of risk factors, which emerged from the lay participants’ data analysis, were “unhealthy lifestyle and habits” , “hormonal influences”, “environmental exposures”, “Individual susceptibility “and “belief in supernatural powers”. The experts had similar perspectives for certain risk factors, yet not for all. The category of “Individual history of disease” was emerged only from experts’ interviews. Conclusion In the present study, the lay participants’ perception concerning BC risk factors was found to be a mixture of cultural beliefs and the scientific knowledge dispersed by the media, internet, and health services. Primary prevention approaches, including awareness of breast cancer risk factors, are required for women to make improved health-related choices.

Women’s Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding the Risk Factors and Warning Signs of Breast Cancer in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…However, gaps in knowledge regarding lesser-known risk factors like hormone replacement therapy, early menarche, and late menopause were observed. To improve prevention efforts, educating women about these less-discussed factors is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of breast cancer risk [ 14 ].…”

Analisis Kejadian Kanker Payudara dan Hambatan dalam Upaya Penanggulangannya

“…Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan oleh Manouchehri di Iran juga mengungkapkan hal yang tidak jauh berbeda bahwa merokok dan perokok pasif adalah salah satu faktor risiko terhadap kejadian kanker payudara. Bisa saja seseorang mungkin bukan perokok atau menggunakan hookah (pipa), tapi mereka ini mungkin terpapar asap rokok yang terdapat di lingkungan keluarga atau tempat bekerja (Manouchehri et al, 2022). Dalam hal ini mereka yang terpapar asap rokok di lingkungan keluarga atau tempat juga termasuk berisiko terhadap kejadian kanker payudara.…”

“…Masih terbatasnya pemahaman masyarakat, tidak terlepas dari belum optimalnya pelaksanaan kegiatan sosialisasi/penyuluhan yang dilakukan oleh tenaga kesehatan kepada masyarakat. Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan Manouchehr di Iran juga mengungkapkan bahwa adanya gaya hidup dan kebiasaan yang tidak sehat seperti merokok, mengkonsumsi makan yang tidak sehat berisiko terhadap kejadian kanker payudara (Manouchehri et al, 2022). Adanya tindakan dan kebiasaan masyarakat yang kurang memperhatikan pola dan kebiasaan hidup yang kurang sehat ini dapat menghambat upaya pencegahan kanker payudara.…”

Breast Cancer and Psychological Issues among Middle Aged Women in Walloon, Belgium

“…In Walloon, Belgium, breast cancer ranks among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Several risk factors contribute to breast cancer, including genetic predisposition, hormonal factors, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures (Manouchehri, Taghipour, Ebadi, Homaei Shandiz & Latifnejad Roudsari, 2022). In Walloon, the prevalence of some risk factors such as sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy dietary habits may contribute to the higher incidence.…”