Understanding breast cancer causes: insights from Jordanian women’s awareness

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the awareness and understanding of breast cancer (BC) etiology among Jordanian women and identify associated demographic factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multiregional cross-sectional survey of 381 women was conducted via online snowball sampling. BC knowledge was assessed using a translated version of the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure. Statistical analyses included univariate and bivariate tests, followed by a multivariate ordinal logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders. RESULTS: Only 39.9% of participants demonstrated proficient comprehension of BC etiology. Knowledge correlated significantly with age, marital status, and expertise (p < 0.05). Awareness was highest among single pharmacy students; notably, 64.8% were single pharmacy students, potentially inflating overall scores. A misconception was identified: 66.1% believed a diagnosis in one breast reduces risk in the other. Age 41-50 (OR = 5.23) and holding a diploma (OR = 0.09) were significant predictors of knowledge compared to postgraduates, while marital status was not significant in the model. CONCLUSIONS: Educational backgrounds significantly influence breast cancer awareness among Jordanian women. There is an urgent need for targeted, community-based training programs to address persistent clinical misconceptions and knowledge gaps, specifically focusing on married women and individuals working or studying in non-medical fields, to improve overall public health standards nationwide.