Awareness and Understanding of Breast Density and Its Implications Among Screening-Age Women

Abstract

Breast density is an important factor influencing breast cancer risk and the accuracy of mammographic screening; however, awareness and understanding among women remain limited. This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and perception of breast density and its implications among screening-age women. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design using a closed-ended questionnaire distributed to women settling in rural and urban regions of Saudi Arabia. This study used the BDAUQ, a structured, self-administered questionnaire. This study involves 678 participants with a mean age of 55.15 ± 9 years. The findings revealed that awareness of breast density was generally low. Only 321 participants reported having heard of the term, while 375 had not. Similarly, fewer participants had been informed about their breast density by healthcare providers (313 vs. 365). Knowledge scores were moderate (mean = 5.01 ± 1.56), whereas awareness scores were low (mean = 2.42 ± 1.08). In contrast, perception scores were relatively higher (mean = 24.25 ± 3.97), indicating a generally positive attitude toward the importance of breast density despite limited understanding. Socio-demographic factors played a significant role in influencing awareness and knowledge. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between awareness and sources of information (F = 21.5, p < 0.001), education (p = 0.004), and income (p < 0.001). Knowledge was also significantly associated with sources of information (p = 0.01), education (p = 0.01), and income (p = 0.03). Perception was significantly associated with education and income but not with age. In conclusion, the study highlights a gap between women’s perception and their actual awareness and knowledge of breast density.