G-1571

Trend Analysis of Breast Cancer Screening in Golestan province’s Family Physician Program: Performance Evaluation for Women Aged 30–69

 Malihe Naderi ^1,2, Mohammad-Ali Jahani,  ³, Reza Hoseinpour ⁴, Vahideh Hamidi Sofiani ⁴, Kosar Kordkatuli ⁵ ℗, Seyed Amir Soltani ^6,7 ©   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Female breast cancer is the most common malignancy in the northeast region of Iran, with an earlier onset compared to developed countries. Lifestyle changes and limited access to early detection have increased the disease burden. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive trend analysis of breast cancer screening within Golestan Province’s Family Physician Program, evaluating the program’s performance among women aged 30–69 from 2019 to 2023. Methods and Materials: This repeated cross-sectional study was retrospectively conducted using secondary data from 442,549 women who were referred for breast cancer screening and recorded in the NAB health information system of Golestan University of Medical Sciences. The dataset included demographic and clinical information. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22) and Microsoft Excel 2022. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while inferential analyses (t-test, chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, and ANOVA) were used to assess group differences, with a significance level of P 0.05. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Golestan University of Medical Sciences (IR.GOUMS.REC.1403.357). Results: The mean age of individuals screened for breast cancer was 42.23 ± 9.93 years. Most participants were married (89.12%) and resided in urban areas (55.96%). The predominant ethnic group was Turkmen (39.98%), followed by Persian and Sistani groups. A positive family history of breast cancer was reported in 3.2% of individuals at the time of screening. The majority of those screened (97%) were asymptomatic, highlighting the importance of routine check-ups. Mammography findings revealed that 0.38% of individuals were diagnosed with malignancy. Additionally, 4.9% of diagnostic cases required referral and follow-up. Among those who underwent biopsy, 39.12% had a positive result, indicating the program’s effectiveness in identifying high-risk cases. Stable urgent referral rates over time underscore the program’s consistency and capacity in managing screening demands, reinforcing the value of preventive efforts. Conclusion and Discussion: The breast cancer screening program in Golestan Province has effectively improved early detection and prioritized high-risk cases, thereby contributing to reduced mortality. Despite temporary disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the program demonstrated resilience, maintaining stable referral rates and diagnostic outcomes. Increased accessibility to advanced screening methods and heightened public awareness have enhanced early diagnosis, especially among asymptomatic individuals. However, participation gaps remain among working women and certain ethnic groups, underscoring the need for targeted outreach and education. Early detection and public health initiatives are crucial in Iran, where breast cancer develops earlier than in other populations and continues to be a leading cause of mortality.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Malignancy; Epidemiology; Biopsy; Risk Factors