Assessment of Awareness Regarding Genetic, Hormonal, and Biochemical Factors Associated with Breast Cancer Among a Sample of the Iraqi Community

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and public awareness of its risk factors is essential for promoting early detection and prevention. This study aimed to assess awareness of genetic, hormonal, and biochemical factors associated with breast cancer among a sample of the Iraqi population. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2025 and February 2026. A total of 684 participants aged 18–40 years were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire adapted from the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (Breast-CAM). The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and participants' awareness of selected breast cancer risk factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. Results: Overall, 46.8% of participants demonstrated a moderate level of awareness, 31.3% had a high level of awareness, and 21.9% had a low level of awareness. Family history was the most frequently recognized risk factor (90.1%), followed by prolonged oral contraceptive use (41.8%), increasing age (40.4%), and smoking (39.0%). In contrast, awareness of first childbirth after the age of 30 years (14.5%), unhealthy dietary habits (14.5%), and the protective role of breastfeeding (2.2%) was considerably lower. Conclusions: The study revealed moderate overall awareness of breast cancer risk factors among the Iraqi population. Although awareness of hereditary risk factors was relatively high, important knowledge gaps were identified regarding hormonal, reproductive, dietary, and other modifiable risk factors. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational programs to improve public awareness and support breast cancer prevention and early detection strategies in Iraq.