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

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.

Automated summary

This study explored the perceptions and opinions of Iranian laywomen and experts regarding breast cancer risk factors. The findings suggest that laywomen's perception is influenced by a combination of cultural beliefs and scientific knowledge disseminated by the media, internet, and health services. Experts held similar perspectives on certain risk factors.