Gynecologists’ knowledge and adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines: a study in Teresina-PI

Introduction: In Brazilian women, the most common type of cancer, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer, is breast cancer (BC). The estimated number of new BC cases for the 2023–2025 triennium in Brazil is 73,610 cases, corresponding to an estimated risk of 66.54 new cases per 100,000 women. Screening is a strategy for examining and detecting cancer at an early stage, when it may be easier to treat or cure. The study examines gynecologists’ knowledge about BC screening in Teresina, PI, Brazil. The aim of the study was to assess these professionals’ adherence to BC screening guidelines, which are essential for early detection and reducing mortality. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2019 with 138 gynecologists selected through simple random sampling. Data collection included a sociodemographic questionnaire and a knowledge evaluation on BC screening. Results: The study found that most gynecologists (58.39%) used mammography alone to screen asymptomatic women, while 40.15% preferred to combine mammography with ultrasound. Screening was most often recommended starting at age 40, and annual screening was suggested for women with a family history of BC. Only a small portion of professionals (11.76%) prescribed chemoprevention with tamoxifen or raloxifene. Notably, 20% reported calculating BC risk. Gynecologists who had completed residency training showed a better understanding and greater accuracy regarding the recommended guidelines. Conclusion: There is a need for continued education to align screening practices with current guidelines and standardize practices, promoting early diagnoses and potentially reducing BC mortality. Harmonizing protocols and regularly updating professionals are fundamental to optimizing screening outcomes.