Opportunistic breast cancer screening: Personal experience

Background: Breast cancer is a significant global public health issue, with early detection being a critical challenge. Screening asymptomatic women through mammography enables early disease detection. In Iraq, an organized breast cancer screening program is yet to be established, although it is crucial to prevent the spread of breast cancer in the country. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the results of opportunistic mammography and report breast cancer cases among employees from various Iraqi ministries who visited the early detection clinic for breast cancer in Baghdad. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 Iraqi women from different ministries who attended Al Elweiya Maternity Teaching Hospital. Data were collected through direct interviews and review of case records. All participants underwent mammography, with results categorized according to the ACR/BIRADS lexicon. Results: Among the participants, 78% were aged ≥40 years and had a high educational level. Seventy-five percent were married, and 33% had a positive family history of breast cancer. Mammography results showed that 82% had normal or benign lesions (BIRADS 1, 2), 16% were reported as BIRADS 0, and 2% had probably benign lesions (BIRADS 3). Conclusion: Opportunistic mammography screening was effective in detecting breast cancer. Promoting breast cancer screening can play a crucial role in its early detection. Establishing nationwide breast cancer control programs with close follow-up and appropriate treatment strategies is essential.