Publication:

Evaluation of women in high-risk groups accepting prophylactic mastectomy and the options for reconstructive surgery in Saudi Arabia

Background Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. The choice to undergo prophylactic bilateral mastectomy (BPM) in high-risk patients to prevent breast cancer can intersect with social, cultural, and religious considerations. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability of BPM among high- risk patients in Saudi Arabia, as well as the available options for breast reconstruction.

Methods A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia involved 371 high-risk patients, and data was collected through an online questionnaire.

Results The mean BMI of respondents was 24.68±9.8. Participants aged between 20 and 25 constituted 53.1% (n=197) of the study population. A majority of participants (75.5%) had academic qualifications. Ninety-six (25.8%) reported a family history of breast cancer. Overall, 65.8% of participants were aware of BPM, yet 48.1% had a negative attitude towards it due to fear of losing their self-image. A significant proportion (65.2%) preferred alternative treatments to BPM. There was no significant association between age or qualification and knowledge of BPM (p>0.05).

Conclusions While awareness of breast cancer and BPM is moderate among high-risk Saudi women, the acceptability of BPM is low, primarily due to concerns about body image and self-esteem. Age and educational qualifications do not significantly impact knowledge levels about BPM.