Adherence to breast and cervical cancer screening guidelines according to obesity status: a French cross-sectional multicenter survey

Objective To assess breast and cervical cancer screening rates among women according to body mass index (BMI). Methods This cross-sectional study used anonymous self-administered questionnaires given to women from three French university hospitals with normal weight (BMI 18.5–25 kg/m 2 ), class I obesity (BMI 30–35 kg/m 2 ), or class II obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m 2 ) in 2020–2021. Up-to-date screening was defined according to national guidelines: biennial clinical breast exams and mammograms for women aged 50–74, and triennial cervical samples for women aged 25–65, excluding those with prior cancer or related surgery. Screening rates and gynecological follow-up were compared across BMI groups. Results Among 439 women (20% class I, 22% class II obesity), 178 and 370 were eligible for breast and cervical cancer screening, respectively. Women with class I and II obesity were less likely to be up-to-date for clinical breast exams (Odds Ratio [95% confidence interval] 2.35[1.06,5.20] and 2.68[1.12,6.42], respectively), mammography (4.43[1.49,13.18] and 4.08[1.22,13.62]), and cervical samples (2.23[1.09,4.54] and 2.85[1.42,5.72]). Class II obesity was associated with more frequent follow-up by general practitioners ( p < 0.05). Conclusion s Women with obesity are less likely to receive recommended gynecological cancer screenings than normal-weight peers. These disparities call for more inclusive healthcare strategies. Trial registration : NCT04357652 .