Survey of Uruguayan women on knowledge related to the prevention of breast cancer

Introduction: In Uruguay, breast cancer (BC) has the highest incidence and mortality of all cancer in women. Objectives: To assess the knowledge of Uruguayan women about breast cancer screening for the early detection of BC. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive and observational study. A survey was applied to woman, it was disseminated through social networks. Informed consent was requested at the beginning of the survey as an exclusive requirement to be able to carry it out. In the statistical analysis, the anonymity of the patients was maintained and the approval of the Ethics Committee of the Hospital de Clinicas was obtained. Results: 1859 women participated. 75.1% (1396) of those surveyed recognize BC as the one with the highest mortality in women. 52% (967) believe that 3 out of 10 women are at risk of developing BC, and 18.4% (342) do not know its prevalence. 60.2% (1119) recognize mammography as a test that has managed to reduce mortality from BC. 64.2% (1193) believe that it is done after 40 years of age. Regarding the frequency. 60.5% (1125) consider that it is carried out annually. The most considered risk factors for developing BC were smoking (60.9%, 1132). obesity (57%. 1.060) and sedentary lifestyle (56.8%, 1056). Conclusions: Our results show that the respondents are adequately informed about the importance of CM and the performance of screening mammography.