Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) is by far the most common neoplasm in females worldwide. According to the Saudi Cancer Registry 2014 report, BC represented 15.9% of all reported cancer cases among the Saudi population, with the highest incidence in the Eastern region. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about BC and to identify barriers to screening among females of Al-Ahsa region.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, during April 2019 using a self-administered questionnaire. The questions were adopted from Breast-CAM and Modified Champion’s Health Belief Model based on the scope of the study. A total number of 390 responses were obtained (n = 390) using a convenience sampling technique. Frequencies and correlations were calculated using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25. Relationships between different variables were tested for significance using a p-value of <0.05.
Results: Out of the 390 studied women, 88.8% (347) had knowledge about BC warning signs, and 66.7% had knowledge about its risk factors. However, their knowledge was limited. Embarrassment was a significant barrier that prevented women from having mammography and clinical breast examination. Nevertheless, failing to remember to carry out the exam was the major barrier that prevented women from having breast self-examination.
Conclusion: The level of knowledge about BC among women was good but insufficient, as some warning signs and risk factors were not identified by most participants. A further holistic approach should be followed when it comes to educating women in Al-Ahsa about BC.

Key words: Breast cancer, screening, awareness, prevention, barriers