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Public awareness of cancer in Britain: a population-based survey of adults

Robb, K; Stubbings, S; Ramirez, A; Macleod, U; Austoker, J; Waller, J; Hiom, S; Wardle, J

Authors

K Robb

S Stubbings

A Ramirez

J Austoker

J Waller

S Hiom

J Wardle



Abstract

Objective:To assess public awareness of cancer warning signs, anticipated delay and perceived barriers to seeking medical advice in the British population. Methods:We carried out a population-based survey using face-to-face, computer-assisted interviews to administer the cancer awareness measure (CAM), a newly developed, validated measure of cancer awareness. The sample included 2216 adults (970 males and 1246 females) recruited as part of the Office for National Statistics Opinions Survey using stratified probability sampling. Results:Awareness of cancer warning signs was low when open-ended (recall) questions were used and higher with closed (recognition) questions; but on either measure, awareness was lower in those who were male, younger, and from lower socio-economic status (SES) groups or ethnic minorities. The most commonly endorsed barriers to help seeking were difficulty making an appointment, worry about wasting the doctor's time and worry about what would be found. Emotional barriers were more prominent in lower SES groups and practical barriers (e.g. too busy) more prominent in higher SES groups. Anticipated delay was lower in ethnic minority and lower SES groups. In multivariate analysis, higher symptom awareness was associated with lower anticipated delay, and more barriers with greater anticipated delay. Conclusions:A combination of public education about symptoms and empowerment to seek medical advice, as well as support at primary care level, could enhance early presentation and improve cancer outcomes.

Citation

Robb, K., Stubbings, S., Ramirez, A., Macleod, U., Austoker, J., Waller, J., …Wardle, J. (2009). Public awareness of cancer in Britain: a population-based survey of adults. The British Journal of Cancer, 101(S2), S18-S23. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bjc.6605386

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Dec 31, 2009
Online Publication Date Dec 3, 2009
Publication Date 2009-12
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal British Journal of Cancer
Print ISSN 0007-0920
Electronic ISSN 1532-1827
Publisher Nature Publishing Group
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 101
Issue S2
Pages S18-S23
DOI https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bjc.6605386
Keywords Cancer Research; Oncology
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/417623
Publisher URL https://www.nature.com/articles/6605386

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