Perceived stress and pain during breast mammography
I. Chaari, A. Samet, A. Wissal, Y. Fourti, F. Charfeddine, L. Aribi, N. Messedi, J. AloulouIntroduction
Mammography is a key breast cancer screening tool. Pain during the procedure is frequent and may reduce adherence. Psychological stress could increase pain perception
Objectives
To assess the relationship between perceived stress and pain during mammography.
Methods
We conducted an online survey targeting the general female population in Tunisia via a sponsored Facebook campaign (December 2023–February 2024). They completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and rated pain (1–10) during their most recent mammogram. Correlation and regression analyses were performed.
Results
A total of 278 women participated. The mean age of participants was 46 years (SD 8.9, range 20–84). The mean pain score was 5/10 (SD 2.8), with 34% of women reported severe pain (≥7/10). Higher PSS-10 scores correlated with greater pain (r = 0.34, p = 0.02). In regression, stress remained independently associated with pain (β = 0.28, p = 0.03), after adjustment for socio-demographic factors.
Conclusions
Perceived stress independently predicts higher pain during mammography. Integrating stress-management interventions into breast cancer screening programs may improve procedural tolerance and adherence.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared