A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study on the Effect of Socio-Cultural Factors and Edication in Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Abstract

Backgrounds: The aim of this study is to investigate the preferences of female patients regarding the choice of surgeon for breast examination and the factors impacting this preference. Methods: A questionnaire was administered by interviewing 746 patients who applied to the General Surgery outpatient clinic with complaints of breast disease, and the results were analyzed statistically. The questionnaire form included the patient's age, marital status, hormonal status, history of delivery, complaints, factors that may impact the choice of physician, educational status, physical examination findings, and imaging results. Results: The study group included 746 patients aged between 14 and 76 years. While 284 (38%) of our patients applied to the outpatient clinic within 7 days of their first symptoms, 462 (62%) applied more than 7 days later. Due to late admission, advanced-stage breast cancer was detected in 2.8% of the patients. The most common reason for the delay in admission was the feeling of embarrassment in females of all age groups. Conclusion: Women with breast disease apply to the physician in the late period due to feeling embarrassed, religious beliefs, spouse pressure, and having a reservation for being examined by a male doctor. Breast diseases could be detected and treated in an earlier period, by enabling patients to apply to a physician earlier, with training, especially for women.