Prevalence of anxiety in women undergoing mammography

ABSTRACT

Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and possible causes of anxiety in women undergoing mammography and verify the impact of prior information as a tool to reduce anxiety. Material and Methods: The sample consisted of female patients who underwent mammography at an oncology reference center in Brazil. Total sample was divided into two groups and only one group received an explanatory folder with information regarding the mammography and its follow-up. All patients received a questionnaire containing demographic and clinical data, questions about the mammographic exam and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Results: Two hundred and seventy-four patients were included, aged between 21 and 89 years. Exam purpose was screening in 48.3%. Self-perception of anxiety was reported in 52.2% and most frequent causes of anxiety referred by patients were worry over results (35.3%) and fear of having pain or discomfort during the procedure (26.6%). The levels of anxiety according to the STAI were moderate or high on 52.6% on the state component, and 82.1% on the trait component. There was no statistically significant difference on anxiety levels according to any of the demographic or clinical variables, or between patients who received and did not receive the educational folder prior to the exam. Conclusion: Anxiety is a common feature of women undergoing mammography, mainly caused by fear of the results and lack of knowledge of the exam. According to the results of this and other studies, there was no impact on reducing levels of anxiety with information measures immediately before the exam.