Awareness and Perception About Cancer Among the Public in Chennai, India

Journal of Global Oncology
Vidhubala ElangovanDhivya Pandian

Abstract

Cancer-related stigma influences the way people perceive cancer, which renders cancer control-beginning with prevention and proceeding to palliation-a challenging task. This study aimed to assess the current levels of awareness and perceptions about cancer among people with various socioeconomic status and diverse backgrounds in the city of Chennai, India. The sample population (N = 2,981; 18 to 88 years of age) was stratified into four groups: patients (n = 510), caregivers (n = 494) consulting at the Cancer Institute (Women Indian Association), college students (n = 978), and general public (n = 999). Fourteen statements related to cancer stigma or myths were identified and categorized by awareness (10 items) or perception (4 items). Responses to those statements were recorded by using a Likert scale (yes, no, and don't know). The data were described by frequency analysis and χ(2) test using SPSS Version 13 (SPSS, Chicago, IL). More than 70% of the study participants were aware that cancer is curable, that cancer is not contagious, and that cancer is not a curse or a death sentence. However, only approximately half believed that surgery or biopsy do not cause cancer to spread to other organs or that radiation therapy does not...Continue Reading

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Citations

Aug 6, 2020·Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care·Dinesh Prasad SahuPrajna Paramita Giri
Feb 25, 2021·Indian Journal of Palliative Care·Vidya Nidhi, Asha Basavareddy

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Methods Mentioned

BETA
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