Rola M. Shaheen MBBS, MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Priscilla Jennings Slanetz MD, MPH, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Sughra Raza MD, Abstract Co-Author: Research grant, Hitachi, Ltd

Waleed Abu Ramadan, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Said Elhusseini, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Max Paul Rosen MD, MPH, Abstract Co-Author: Consultant, Perceptive Informatics, Inc Stockholder, SafeMed Inc Research grant, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Inc

To identify barriers to mammography through learning about attitudes of Gaza women toward mammography and breast cancer in an effort to develop a multifaceted comprehensive educational and interventional program targeting increased awareness and early detection of breast cancer in Gaza, the number one killer disease for Gaza women inside Gaza with a very low 5 year survival rate (35%).

200 surveys of Gaza women older than 35 years living inside (130) and outside (70) of Gaza were distributed to learn about attitdues toward mammogarphy and breast cancer.Surveys were distributed through a network of physicians, local NGOs and international contacts.100/130 (77%) surveys of women in Gaza (WIG) were retuned.A control group of Gaza women living outside Gaza (WOG) in 10 countries had returned 55/70 (79%) suveys.Control group of (WOG) live in countries with available mammography facilities.

98% of Gaza women are willing to get a diagnostic work up including mammography for a breast complaint regard less of where they live. On the other hand, 27% of WIG, and 50% WOG are willing to undergo screening mammography. 85% of women realize that survival rates will increase with early detection. No religious or cultural traditions are identified as barriers for mammography in either group. Limited resources and lack of access to medical facilities in Gaza were among the main barriers to mammography in up to 55% of WIG compared to 15% of WOG. Approximately 45% of WIG cannot afford a mammogram, while only 16% of WOG reported cost as a barrier. More misconceptions were encountered in WIG in up to 30% such as breast cancer not identified as common cancer, and mammography causes cancer. Overall 90% of women in both groups would like to lower their risk and learn more about breast cancer,

Cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic barriers exist to mammography for Gaza women.Gaza women are willing to workup a breast complaint including diagnostic mammography; however they show less willingness to undergo screening mammography.Between WIG and WOG we found significant differences in ability to reach medical facilities, and availability of resources.Misconceptions about mammography and breast cancer were greater among WIG than WOG.

Any program to improve screening rates and early detection of breast cancer for women in Gaza must address both structural, educational and cultural barriers.

Shaheen, R, Slanetz, P, Raza, S, Abu Ramadan, W, Elhusseini, S, Rosen, M, Barriers and Opportunities for Mammography for Gaza Women.  Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9015581.html