Determinants of Early Cancer Screening Behaviour in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Early detection and improvements/advancements in medicine have contributed to an overall decrease in mortality and morbidity rates resulting from cancer diagnoses. Despite this improvement in national and global health status, Nigerians continue to be diagnosed at a later stage, with a more aggressive disease state. This is an important observation given the impact cancer has on the abilities of individuals to function physically, psychologically, and socially within the context of their environment. It is important therefore to identify and target specific groups that may be less willing to present for early cancer screening. Aim: To understand the characteristics of people who are likely or not likely to present for early cancer screening among Nigerians, and to address the use of mechanisms by which to ensure a timely diagnosis of preventable cancers among Nigerians. Methods: Adult Nigerians (N=144), 18-71 years of age who presented for clinical breast exam (CBE), visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and prostate specific antigen test (PSA) screenings after an awareness exercise; completed survey forms which included a personality inventory, early cancer detection behavior scale and a demography profile. Multiple regression and ANOVA were used to examine predictive patterns as well as differences between and within groups. Results: Results showed income ( b = 0.18, P < .05) to be a significant determinant of early cancer detection behavior, such that higher income earners were more likely to go for screening. There were also significant gender differences in current cancer detection behavior between males (M = 0.15, SD = 0.51) and females (M= 0.47, SD = 0.80); males are less likely to engage in early detection behavior ( F(1,145) = 4.76, P = .03). Data further show differences between older (≥ 41) and younger (≤ 40) participants in intention to screen for cancer, with older participants reporting more willingness to engage in cancer screening. Conclusion: Our finding enhances our understanding of the profile of the groups who are less likely to screen for cancer. Also, it suggests that awareness campaign and free screening exercises should target these at-risk groups in Nigeria.