Knowledge Of Cancer Risk Factors Research Articles

Knowledge and Awareness of Cervical Cancer Risk Factors among Educated Youth: A Cross Sectional, e-Questionnaire Based Survey among the College Students of Jammu City

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women in India, and India has the largest burden of cervical cancer patients in the world. One out of every five women suffering from this disease belongs to India. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer risk factors among college going female students of Jammu University and to study about their behavior regarding prevention and screening of cervical carcinoma. A descriptive self-administered, e-questionnaire was employed for data collection. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Two hundred and fifty two female students (n = 252) between the age group 17 and 25 years participated with a response rate of 100%. Majority of students (81.7%) were aware of the term cervical cancer. However, only 68 (26.9%) thought that they could suffer from it as they had the perception that it affects married women or elderly only. Assessment of knowledge regarding the risk factors of cervical cancer revealed that only 99 (39.2%) knew that it is transmitted through sexual contact. With regard to attitude of the students towards cervical cancer, around 157 (62.3%) knew that regular screening leads to early diagnosis of the cancer. This study highlights unawareness of various aspects of cervical cancer among educated young women in Jammu city and the critical need for sustained continuing educational interventions to emphasize the importance and awareness of cervical cancer.

Impact of interventional documentary on knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors among rural women in North-Central Nigeria

Background: In view of the growing concern about cervical cancer prevalence and mortality rates, this study assessed the impact of interventional documentary on knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors among women in North-central Nigeria. Data Source and Methods: The study adopted a quasi-experimental design and survey to study 522 reproductive-age women. The stratified sampling technique was used to select six local government areas. Descriptive statistics, chi-square and binary logistic regression were used in data analysis. Results: There was no significant difference in pre-interventional knowledge of risk factors in the study and control groups p>0.05. There was significant difference in pre- and post-interventional knowledge in the study group p<0.05. ‘Number of children’ ‘marital status’, and ‘number of times married’ predicted aggregate knowledge at post-intervention. Conclusion: The intervention documentary was effective in knowledge increases, but there was no indication that knowledge increases lead to less risky behaviour. Documentaries should harp on self-efficacy and collective monitoring of adherence to non-risky behaviour.

Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Oral Cancer Knowledge: a Systematic Review.

Oral cancer is prone to late-stage diagnosis, and subsequent low five-year survival rates. A small number of interventions or campaigns designed to enhance knowledge of risk factors and symptoms associated with oral cancer have been attempted in the UK, US, and some other countries. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve oral cancer knowledge. We searched five databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized/quasi-experimental (NR/QE) studies targeting the general population or high-risk groups (tobacco users or alcohol consumers), aged ≥15years, and reporting the outcomes of individual and/or community level interventions. Two co-authors independently identified relevant studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, 27 (eight RCTs and 19 NR/QE studies) of the 551 studies identified from the five databases met the inclusion criteria. All RCTs and nine NR/QE studies used either printed materials, health education sessions, multimedia aids, or some combinations of these tools. The other ten NR/QE studies were community-based and used mass media campaigns to increase oral cancer awareness. Overall, the majority of studies significantly improved oral cancer knowledge; however, heterogeneity in study design and variation in measurement tools made it difficult to compare outcomes. Findings suggest that individual and/or community level interventions are generally effective in increasing knowledge of oral cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, and/or its early diagnosis and prevention strategies among the general population or high-risk groups. However, the long-term benefits of these interventions are understudied.

Optimising Awareness and Knowledge of Breast Cancer Screening for Nurses Through Train-the-Trainer Workshops

Nurses play an important role in educating patients on breast cancer and have a positive influence in encouraging women to participate in breast screening. This current study aimed to use a train-the-trainer model to improve the level of knowledge of nurses on breast cancer and screening in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The study also focused on the nurses' ability to train other nurses in assisting women to engage in breast screening. This interventional study used a mixed-method design. Seventeen female nurses (aged 28-60years) were recruited from public and private health centers and participated in a breast cancer train-the-trainer workshop. They completed a survey before and after the workshop. The surveys included a series of open and closed questions to assess their knowledge of breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and patient communication. The study found that nurse participants had good baseline knowledge of breast cancer topics, including breast self-examinations, clinical breast examinations, and mammography. Responses were deemed accurate if they answered open-ended questions without incorrect information and correct options were selected in the quantitative sections. However, training improved the detail and accuracy of the participant responses. Training also improved the confidence of nurse participants to teach other women and nurses how to perform breast self-examinations and provide breast cancer information. There were significant increases in nurse participants' knowledge of risk factors (p < 0.001, r = 0.6) and symptoms (p = 0.003, r = 0.5). The nurse participants perceived that health education was the best means of encouraging women to participate in breast screening.

Cervical cancer and screening: knowledge, awareness and attitudes of women in Malta.

SummaryObjectivesThis study comes at an opportune time due to recent introduction of the National Cervical Cancer Screening programme in Malta. It aims to assess the knowledge of 25-64 year-old females on cervical cancer and attitudes towards screening.Study designA cross-sectional, telephone-based, quantitative survey conducted in 2017.MethodsThe survey tool was based on the Cervical Cancer Awareness Measure questionnaire and was carried out among a random stratified sample of females of 25-64 years, resident in Malta. Multivariate logistic regression models were applied.Results407 females (85% response rate) were interviewed. Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms was found to be significantly higher in women with a higher level of education (p < 0.001). Cervical screening was attended every 3 years by 69% of respondents. Regular attendees were more likely to have children (p = 0.001), have experienced cancer in a close family member (p = 0.002), and were between 35-44 and 45-54 years old (p < 0.001). The main reasons for non-attendance were embarrassment, fear of the test and fear of the result.ConclusionThis research provides a better understanding of who are the vulnerable groups with respect to cervical cancer knowledge and screening attendance. Improving health literacy and implementing health promotion campaigns will improve early symptom recognition, risk factor knowledge and attendance for screening.

Knowledge and Beliefs of Cancer Risk Factors and Early Cancer Symptoms in Lebanon: A Cross-sectional Survey Among Adults in the Community.

BackgroundLebanon has an increasing cancer burden. Sufficient knowledge of cancer risk factors and early cancer symptoms can help lower cancer burden by facilitating primary prevention and early diagnosis. This study (i) assessed Lebanese adults’ knowledge and beliefs of cancer risk factors and early cancer symptoms, (ii) analyzed whether knowledge was correlated with personal behavior, and (iii) assessed the presence of barriers that keep knowledge from turning into healthcare seeking behavior.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional survey in the Lebanese adult population, consisting of a questionnaire administered during face-to-face interviews on a community-based non-probability sample (n = 726) that was frequency matched to national government estimates on age, level of education and gender.ResultsRecognition was high for carcinogens and protective factors (75%), but low for neutral factors (22%) which were often seen as carcinogenic. A quarter of participants (27.8%) could not name any early warning signs. For some risk factors, high knowledge scores were correlated with low-risk behavior, but this was not the case for cigarette smoking. The most frequent barriers for not seeking timely care were financial (57.0%) fear of finding illness (53.7%), and having other things to worry about (42.4%).ConclusionThis study revealed important knowledge gaps which are likely to hamper primary prevention and early diagnosis. However, we also showed that high knowledge of risk was not always correlated with low-risk behavior. This, together with the barriers we found that kept people from seeking timely health care, emphasizes that efforts to lower cancer burden should not only focus on increasing knowledge.

Knowledge and Public Awareness of Cancer Risk Factors and Determinants among Yemeni adults- A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study

Cancer is the second biggest cause of premature death after cardiovascular diseases. However, the majority of cancers are caused by risk factors that may be changed. Knowledge is frequently a component of the behavior modification process. Data on the target population’s level of knowledge is required. A cross-sectional survey about nine risk factors for cancer was conducted in four areas in Yemen. The data was analyzed using spss statistics (version20). Among the (571) subjects who took part in the research. The majority of respondents agreed that active smoking, alcohol consumptions are cancer risk factors and physical activity as a preventive factor for developing cancer. However, fewer respondents agreed that passive smoking, lack of fresh vegetables and fruits, sun overexposure, obesity, air pollution in cities and indoor smoke, physical inactivity are cancer risk factors. Participants’ responses were shown to have a strong relationship with their educational level, residency, and gender. The higher the educational level and whenever the gender was male and residency urban the higher the probability that respondents identified cancer risk factors including smoking and physical activity as a preventive factor (p&lt;0.0005). The findings show that this community has little knowledge of prevalent cancer risk factors.

Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among women in a refugee settlement: a cross-sectional study in northern Uganda

BackgroundThere are limited data on awareness of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among refugee populations living in Uganda. In this study, we sought to determine the awareness and knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among women in Palabek refugee settlement, northern Uganda.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study. 815 women (aged 18–60 years) were randomly selected using multistage sampling in Palabek refugee settlement. Data were collected using pre-tested, structured questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to determine magnitudes of association between socio-demographic and health system factors, and knowledge on cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms.ResultsThe majority of participants (53%, n = 433) were young (18–29 years), married (68%, n = 553), and did not have formal employment (93%, n = 759). Less than half (40%, n = 325) had heard of cervical cancer. Of those who had heard, most recognized multiple male sexual partners, early onset of sexual intercourse and HPV infections as risk factors for cervical cancer (93%, n = 295; 89%, n = 283; and 86%, n = 271 respectively). Median knowledge score for risk factor recognition = 7 (IQR: 3–9). Median knowledge score for symptoms recognition = 7 (IQR: 1–10). Half of women (50%, n = 409) correctly recognized 7 to 11 symptoms of cervical cancer, with vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods, pelvic pain, and vaginal bleeding during/after sexual intercourse recognized by 58, 52 and 54% respectively. Single women (OR = 0.59 (95%CI: 0.38–0.94), and women that lived farther than 1 kilo meter from nearest health facility in South Sudan (OR = 0.36–0.49 (95%CI: 0.26–0.84) were less likely to be knowledgeable of symptoms of cervical cancer.ConclusionA significant proportion of women in Palabek refugee settlement had not heard about cervical cancer. Refugee health services providers could increase awareness of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms through health education in order to promote risk reduction behaviours and guide women during symptoms appraisal. Single women and those who lived more than one kilo metre from nearest health facility in home country could be a priority group for awareness intervention in the settlement.

Heavy is the Head That Wears the Crown: Black Men's Perspective on Harmful Effects of Black Women's Hair Product Use and Breast Cancer Risk.

Racial disparities in breast cancer are well-documented, and Black women assume a disproportionate burden of breast cancer mortality. Black women also commonly use hair products containing endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) more often at an increased rate, as compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Emerging findings have reported the use of hair and other personal care products containing EDCs may contribute to breast cancer risk. While some sociocultural perspectives about hair and identity have been explored, the role of beauty expectations upheld by males has not been studied. Through a community-based participatory methodology, we explored perceptions and beliefs held by Black men regarding Black women’s hair, chemical exposures in hair products, and breast cancer risk. Focus groups and key informant interviews—among men with and without partners with a history of breast cancer—were used to examine the male perspective regarding the attractiveness of Black hairstyles, opinions of beauty norms, and knowledge of breast cancer risk factors. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed guided by grounded theory methods. From the 66 participants interviewed, there was general support for natural hairstyles, which were associated with confidence and self-esteem in women. Men agreed that beauty standards and societal pressures play notable roles in the women’s personal behaviors though they mostly lacked knowledge of women’s breast cancer risk related to EDCs found in personal care products. Participants suggested a multipronged strategy centered on community education involving social and traditional media campaigns, and the engagement of policy makers in intervention efforts.

Knowledge of Breast Cancer Risk Factors and Practices of Breast Self-Examination among Women in Northern Ghana

Introduction: Breast cancer remains a major global health concern in both developed and developing countries. The current study aimed to assess the knowledge of risk factors of breast cancer (BC), and the practice of breast self-examination (BSE) among females in the Tamale Metropolis of Northern Ghana. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving 1122 participants; consisting of nurses 157 (14.1%), teachers 227 (20.2%), undergraduate university students 339 (30.5%), medical students 95 (8.5%) and market women 304 (27.3%). Using a convenience sampling method to select the participants, we distributed questionnaires to participants which were completed and returned. Results: Most of the participants, 498 (44.4%) were between age 19-25. The majority were enlightened about BC (93.1%), and BSE (87.6%), 723 (64%) had good knowledge about the risk factors of BC. A total of 857 (76.4%) had previously been taught BSE. However, only 417 (37.2%) were found to practice BSE regularly. Conclusion: The knowledge of BC risk factors and BSE was remarkable, but varied in the various occupational categories. However, only a few participants practiced BSE regularly. There is a need for widespread educational campaigns to educate further and encourage women to practice BSE regularly. The inclusion of men in these crusades is long overdue. Equipped with the knowledge and skills of BSE, men could assist and encourage their spouses to frequently examine themselves. Further research studies will be necessary to ascertain the role of men in championing BSE among their significant others.&#x0D; Keywords: awareness; breast cancer; breast self-examination; knowledge; practice; Ghana; Tamale

Do Men and Women in Saudi Arabia Have the Same Level of Awareness and Knowledge of Breast Cancer? A Cross-Sectional Study.

ContextAwareness is important in combating breast cancer, as early detection (through mammograms) and prompt treatment offer the greatest chance of long-term survival.AimsThe aim of this study was to assess public knowledge of breast cancer (signs, symptoms, and risk factors) and awareness of screening programs; and compare it among men and women.Materials and MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among male and female residents of five of the geographic regions of Saudi Arabia from February 2015 to May 2015. Information was collected using a questionnaire, and included sociodemographic data, general knowledge about breast cancer, and awareness of screening programs. Chi-squared test was used to compare the binary knowledge variables (correct/incorrect) between men and women. Logistic regression was utilized to assess predictors of breast cancer knowledge.ResultsA total of 9691 men and 31,022 women were surveyed. Women had better knowledge regarding breast cancer symptoms than men, except for breast cancer being related to death. Men and women had similar knowledge of breast cancer risk factors; however, more women correctly identified family history (68%), large breast size (46%) as increasing risk, and breastfeeding (60%) as reducing the risk of breast cancer compared to men (56%, 32%, and 47%, respectively). Older age and higher education were related with high breast cancer knowledge, and it was more pronounced among men. Employment was a predictor for better knowledge among women. Participants with no history of breast cancer were less likely to have good breast cancer knowledge compared with those with a family history, (OR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.5–0.6) and (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.5–0.6) among men and women, respectively. More women (24%) than men (19%) knew of breast cancer screening programs, although the awareness was low in both genders.ConclusionAwareness campaigns in Saudi Arabia, especially those aimed at men, remain critical to increase knowledge and change behavior toward early detection of breast cancer.

Knowledge of Endometrial Cancer Risk Factors in a General Gynecologic Population

Abstract Objectives To determine knowledge regarding endometrial cancer (EC) risk factors in a general gynecologic patient population. Study design A questionnaire survey regarding health behaviors and knowledge of risk factors of EC was administered to patients presenting for routine gynecologic care at two general gynecologic practices affiliated with a tertiary-care center between August and October 2014. Patient demographics, lifestyle information, and knowledge regarding EC risk factors were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and bivariable analyses, Χ2 tests, Fischer's exact tests, and t-tests. Results 231 women responded. Median age was 56 years old (IQR 25–64), and 87% were Caucasian. Median BMI was 24.9 (IQR 22.3–29.2). 24.7% were overweight and 24.3% obese. The majority (69.4%) of patients received a college or graduate degree. Over half of the women (52.1%) did not know that obesity was associated with increased risk of EC. When dichotomized based on obese vs non obese, there was no difference in patients' knowledge of the association between obesity and EC (47% vs 48%, respectively, p = .93). 91% of all respondents reported that their gynecologist or primary care physician had never discussed the risks of EC with them. Conclusions Regardless of education level, age or obesity status, the majority of women did not know the common risks of EC. Increased efforts towards educating women regarding obesity and other risk factors of EC are necessary in order to reduce the rising incidence of EC, a predominantly obesity-driven disease. Interventions must include general obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care providers.

Investigation of the Knowledge and Behaviors of Breast Cancer Early Diagnosis Methods and Risk factors in Pregnant Women

Objective: To investigate the knowledge and behaviors of breast cancer early diagnosis methods and risk factors in pregnant women Material and methods: The study has a descriptive, cross-sectional design. Data collection was performed by using a questionnaire created by the researcher in light of the literature. Data were collected in State Hospital between October and December in 2018. The study population included all pregnant women presenting to hospital and experiencing their second and third trimesters at the time of data collection. The study sample involved 194 pregnant women accepting to participate in the study. Results: Age at the first pregnancy was 30 years or older in 4.5% of the women, 13.6% of the women had not given birth before and 8.8% of the women had a familial history of breast cancer. Thirty-two point five percent of the women heard about breast self-examination before pregnancy and 61.3% of the women did not perform breast self-examination before pregnancy. During pregnancy, 74.7% women did not perform breast self-examination and 95.9% of the patients did not have clinical breast examinations. Conclusion: Evaluation of risk factors, performing clinical breast examination and ultrasound in the first prenatal follow-up visit will help early diagnosis of breast cancer. Informing pregnant women about breast self-examination to raise their awareness about pregnancy associated breast cancer.

Research on the knowledge of women about the risk factors for cervical cancer

Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is currently the eight most common cancer among women and the seventh leading cause of cancer-related death in women in Poland. Early, non-invasive cervical cancer may develop over the years without clinical symptoms. Also, given the fact that early forms are treatable effectively, it's important to get preventive examinations. It is especially important in the group of women at high risk of developing CC. Purpose: The aim of the study is to assess women's knowledge of the risk factors for cervical cancer.Material and method: Women's knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors was verified with an anonymous online questionnaire. The obtained results were analysed and checked on the basis of scientific literature.Results: The vast majority of respondents consider family history of cancer as a risk factor for CC. 75.9% of women consider infection with HPV a risk factor. Chronic vaginal infections were chosen by over half of the women. The onset of intercourse at an early age was considered a risk factor by only 24.6%, while a large number of sexual partners by 45.4%.Conclusions: The results of the conducted research indicate that the knowledge of women from the studied group about the risk factors for cervical cancer and methods of prevention is average. In order to improve the epidemiological situation of cervical cancer in Poland, efforts should be intensified to increase the education of women in this field.

Knowledge of Risk Factors, Symptoms and Barriers to Seeking Medical Help for Cervical Cancer among Omani Women Attending Sultan Qaboos University Hospital.

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess knowledge and attitudes among Omani woman regarding cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms as well as barriers to them seeking medical help.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2017 and March 2018 at the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH) in Muscat, Oman. A validated Arabic-language version of the Cervical Cancer Awareness Measure questionnaire was used to collect data from 550 Omani women visiting SQUH during the study period.ResultsA total of 490 women participated (response rate: 89.1%) in this study. Overall, the women demonstrated low levels of knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms (28.5% and 45.0%, respectively). The most frequently recognised risk factor was having many children (36.1%), while the most recognised symptom was unexplained vaginal bleeding (69.8%). Women reported that being too scared was the greatest barrier to seeking medical help (68.0%). Various factors were significantly associated with greater knowledge of cervical cancer signs and symptoms including education level (odds ratio [OR] = 2.85; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0–8.22; P <0.05), income (OR = 4.34; 95% CI: 1.70–11.12; P <0.05), parity (OR = 3.59; 95% CI: 1.38–9.36; P <0.05) and a family history of cancer (OR = 1.71; CI: 1.0–2.90; P <0.05).ConclusionOverall, Omani women demonstrated poor knowledge with regards to cervical cancer; in addition, they identified several emotional barriers to seeking medical help. Healthcare practitioners should reassure female patients to encourage care-seeking behaviour. A national screening programme is also recommended to increase awareness and early diagnosis of cervical cancer in Oman.

Abstract B097: Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and screening among sub-Saharan African immigrant women

Abstract Background: Globally, cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. The risk of invasive cervical cancer remains high among sub-Saharan African immigrant (SSAI) women in the US despite being a preventable cancer. Women's knowledge about cervical cancer risk factors and preventive behaviors has been found to be related to the uptake of Pap screening and engagement in other healthy behaviors. Given the high prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and other cervical cancer risks among SSAI women, it is critical that SSAI women be well informed and knowledgeable regarding their cervical cancer risk and prevention. The purpose of this study is to assess SSAI women's knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors, HPV, and cervical cancer screening. Methods: This study was a quantitative analysis of cross-sectional survey of 108 English-speaking SSAI women aged 21 and above recruited from Lexington and Frankfort, Kentucky, between October and December 2016. Information on demographics, screening behavior, and cervical cancer knowledge was collected. A knowledge scale including 14 questions about facts and common myths related to cervical cancer and HPV was used. Total knowledge scores were calculated for participants. Analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with knowledge scores. Results: Participants' mean age was 34 ± 9 years, 56% had a college degree, 65% reported that their income was adequate, and 54% had lived in the U.S for more than 5 years. The composite knowledge score was 7.8 ±3.6 with a maximum score of 14. In bivariate analysis, length of residence in the U.S (P= 0 .001), ever had Pap screening (P &amp;lt; 0.001), health insurance (P &amp;lt; 0.001), having primary provider (P = 0.020), and health provider recommendation for cervical cancer screening (P = 0.006) were associated with knowledge. In multiple regression analysis, longer length of residence in the U.S (P = 0.044) and ever having a Pap screening (P = 0.007) remained significantly associated with cervical cancer knowledge. Conclusions: Findings show a limited knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and the role of HPV in cervical cancer. Future research should further explore and understand how length of residence in the US and having had a Pap screening are related to cervical cancer risks knowledge. The gaps in women's knowledge points to the need for targeted educational interventions to address knowledge needs of SSAI women to encourage cervical cancer screening prevention and timely detection. Citation Format: Adebola Adegboyega, Adaeze Aroh, Jennifer Hatcher. Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and screening among sub-Saharan African immigrant women [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2018 Nov 2-5; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl):Abstract nr B097.

Abstract D019: SGM Cancer CARE: Creating a health workforce trained to conduct sexual and gender minority (SGM) affirmative research from prevention to survivorship

Abstract Background: A health workforce trained to conduct SGM-inclusive cancer research is needed for SGM persons seeking comprehensive cancer care including prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship. Research on SGM cancer care has described many disparities, and a number of studies of SGM individuals have documented increased exposure to cancer-risk factors and certain cancers, as well as poorer cancer outcomes. Yet SGM patients are extremely diverse, presenting with unique and varied care needs. Although research on SGM groups has grown, gaps persist in the knowledge of specific SGM cancer risk factors and treatment experiences that are critical for developing evidence-based oncology care guidelines across the cancer care continuum. As no nationally available resource routinely trains and prepares the oncology/biomedical workforce for SGM cancer research, we were recently awarded, a National Cancer Institute 1R25CA240113=01 (Chang and Sanchez PIs), SGM Cancer CARE (Sexual and Gender Minority Cancer: Curricular Advances for Research and Education), to design an up-to-date, competency-based interactive 2-day workshop for early career researchers. We will present results from the needs assessment of researcher and oncology provider needs for SGM cancer research training, clinical care, and health care advocacy that supported our application. Approaches: We distributed an electronic survey containing 32 questions to determine health and research professional interest in, and need for, SGM specific cancer training and education through several professional organization list serves including the LGBTQ Workforce Conference and the Geographic Management of Cancer Health Disparities Program (GMaP). Results: Respondents (n=138) worked predominantly in academic medical centers and public health/government, as researchers (54.62%), clinicians (14.62%), educators (22.31%), and administrators (7.69%). They identified 3 key priorities for improving SGM cancer health research: 1) Increased knowledge of SGM cancer research priorities (3.99 Mean, SD 1.22); 2) Updates on current SGM cancer literature (5.61 Mean, SD 1.45); and 3) Assistance building advisory committees of relevant stakeholders to ensure design and conduct of culturally competent SGM cancer and cancer health disparities research (5.64 Mean, SD 1.40). Importantly, 90.6% lacked sufficient resources for travel to attend SGM cancer research training opportunities, indicating desires for web-based education or blending learning modalities. Conclusion: Findings from our needs assessment suggest that the SGM Cancer CARE curriculum in development is responsive to the needs of health and research professionals. Intended for presentation in a 1.5 day pilot workshop, however, financial constraints may necessitate designing flexible learning formats in order to reach an array of professionals and stimulate learning, thereby increasing SGM cancer research leading to more equitable health for vulnerable SGM populations. Citation Format: Miria Kano, Dominique Jasperse, Irene Tami-Murray, Yen Nhi Pham, Nelson Sanchez, Shine Chang. SGM Cancer CARE: Creating a health workforce trained to conduct sexual and gender minority (SGM) affirmative research from prevention to survivorship [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr D019.

Knowledge of symptoms and risk factors of breast cancer among women: a community based study in a low socio-economic area of Mumbai, India

BackgroundBreast cancer (BC) is leading cancer among women in India accounting for 27% of all cancers among women. Factors that make the policymakers and public health system worried are rising incidence of breast cancer in India and more importantly high death rates among breast cancer patients. One of the leading causes of high breast cancer deaths is lack of awareness and screening leading to the late presentation at an advanced stage. Therefore, the current research aimed to understand the knowledge of breast cancer symptoms and risk factors among women in a low socio-economic area of Mumbai.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at Prabhadevi, Mumbai and primary data was collected from 480 women aged 18–55 years. Structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data pertaining to awareness, signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Bivariate and multivariate regression techniques were used for understanding of the socio-demographic differentials in breast cancer awareness among women.ResultsThe study found that around half (49%) of the women were aware of breast cancer. The women who were aware of breast cancer considered lump in breast (75%), change in shape and size of breast (57%), lump under armpit (56%), pain in one breast (56%) as the important and common symptoms. Less than one-fifth of the women who were aware of breast cancer reported early menstruation (5.6%), late menopause (10%), hormone therapy (13%), late pregnancy (15%) and obesity (19%) as the risk factors for breast cancer. The multivariate regression analysis showed women who had more than 10 years of schooling (Adjusted Odds Ratio: 3.93, CI: 2.57–6.02, P < 0.01) were about 4 times more likely to be aware of breast cancer than women who had less than 10 years of schooling.ConclusionIn conclusion, knowledge of danger signs and risk factors of breast cancer were low among women in the community. This may lead to late detection of breast cancer among women in the community. Therefore, the study calls for advocacy and larger intervention to enhance knowledge of breast cancer among women in the particular region with a special reference to women with low education.

Knowledge of endometrial cancer risk factors in a general gynecologic population

ObjectivesTo determine knowledge regarding endometrial cancer (EC) risk factors in a general gynecologic patient population. Study designA questionnaire survey regarding health behaviors and knowledge of risk factors of EC was administered to patients presenting for routine gynecologic care at two general gynecologic practices affiliated with a tertiary-care center between August and October 2014. Patient demographics, lifestyle information, and knowledge regarding EC risk factors were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and bivariable analyses, Χ2 tests, Fischer's exact tests, and t-tests. Results231 women responded. Median age was 56 years old (IQR 25–64), and 87% were Caucasian. Median BMI was 24.9 (IQR 22.3–29.2). 24.7% were overweight and 24.3% obese. The majority (69.4%) of patients received a college or graduate degree. Over half of the women (52.1%) did not know that obesity was associated with increased risk of EC. When dichotomized based on obese vs non obese, there was no difference in patients' knowledge of the association between obesity and EC (47% vs 48%, respectively, p = .93). 91% of all respondents reported that their gynecologist or primary care physician had never discussed the risks of EC with them. ConclusionsRegardless of education level, age or obesity status, the majority of women did not know the common risks of EC. Increased efforts towards educating women regarding obesity and other risk factors of EC are necessary in order to reduce the rising incidence of EC, a predominantly obesity-driven disease. Interventions must include general obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care providers.

Awareness of Breast Cancer Risk Factors, Symptoms and Breast Self-Examination Among Omani Female Teachers: A cross-sectional study.

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess knowledge of breast cancer (BC) risk factors, warning signs and symptoms and breast self-examination (BSE) practice among Omani female teachers in Al-Dhahira Governorate.MethodsA cross-sectional sample of female teachers aged 20–50 years was collected from January to December 2018 from three wilayats (provinces) in Al-Dhahira—Ibri, Dhank and Yunqal. A questionnaire that included the Breast Cancer Awareness Scale and demographic characteristics was administered. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis and Pearson’s Chi-square test.ResultsA total of 478 female teachers were included in the study (response rate: 72.4%). The majority of participants (60.5%) had good overall knowledge about BC while 19.9% of participants had excellent overall knowledge. Only 9% of participants demonstrating excellent knowledge of BC risk factors. More than half of the participants (56.1%) reported excellent knowledge in screening methods. Unfortunately, only 57% of the female teachers indicated practising BSE. Knowledge of BC symptoms was closely divided between excellent and good levels (45.8 and 42.5%, respectively). BSE practice was significantly (P <0.05) correlated with overall knowledge of BC and its symptoms and screening methods, but not with knowledge of BC risk factors.ConclusionThis study revealed unsatisfactory overall knowledge of BC risk factors, symptoms, screening methods and BSE practice among female Omani teachers in Al-Dhahira Governorate. These findings constitute a challenge to healthcare providers to continue developing awareness of BC and providing health information to the public.