An examination of cancer literacy among Appalachian versus non-Appalachian Kentucky college students

Abstract

Objective Examine factors contributing to high rates of Appalachian female cancer incidences and mortalities by examining cancer literacy and associated sociological influences among Appalachian university students. Participants This study evaluated Appalachian and non-Appalachian undergraduate students in Eastern Kentucky. Methods A Qualtrics survey was disseminated which categorized questions into three parts: demographic, female focused cancer literacy, and cancer care access. Results Overall cancer literacy was low (67.45%, 139 respondents); no difference was found in Appalachian standing. Male students had lower scores (p < 0.05), and both cancer-related majors (p < 0.001) and enhanced academic years (p < 0.05) improved cancer literacy. Limited awareness of mobile cancer screening units was found across respondents, along with, decreased access to health services indicated by Appalachian students (p < 0.05). Conclusions College students represent a population in need of enhanced cancer education. Improving knowledge about accessing healthcare including cancer screenings could reduce Appalachian cancer rates.