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Measuring common public misperceptions about cancer
S L Luther1, J H Price, M Goormastic
1Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center, Ohio 44106.
Abstract:
A 32 item criterion-referenced knowledge questionnaire was developed to measure the level of common misperceptions about the nature of cancer and cancer treatments held by the public. A sample of 353 respondents were contacted and agreed to complete the questionnaire through a random telephone survey technique (Random Digit Dialing). An extensive analysis of the responses to the survey was performed and supported the validity and reliability of the instrument. Results of the survey indicate that the prevalence of misperceptions held by the public is high. The total mean score correct on the questionnaire was only 17.2 out of a possible 32. No differences were found for total mean score on the questionnaire based on the respondents' age, sex, or whether they or someone close to them had ever had cancer. Statistically significant differences, however, were found for the total mean score on the questionnaire based on the respondent's level of education and how they responded to two attitudinal questions on the questionnaire. The most prevalent misperceptions about cancer related to questions about side effects from the treatment for cancer, followed by questions about proven cancer treatments and unproven or quack cancer treatments. The least prevalent misperceptions about cancer related to questions about the nature of cancer.
Insights
Public understanding of cancer is low, with many common misperceptions about its nature and treatments. This study highlights significant knowledge gaps regarding cancer side effects and treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Health Communication
Background:
- Public understanding of cancer is crucial for effective prevention, screening, and treatment adherence.
- Common misperceptions about cancer can lead to fear, delayed diagnosis, and reliance on unproven therapies.
- Assessing public knowledge is essential to identify areas for targeted health education initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a knowledge questionnaire to measure public misperceptions about cancer.
- To assess the prevalence of these misperceptions within the general population.
- To identify demographic and attitudinal factors associated with cancer knowledge levels.
Main Methods:
- Development of a 32-item criterion-referenced knowledge questionnaire.
- A random digit dialing telephone survey was used to recruit 353 respondents.
- Statistical analysis was performed to establish the instrument's validity and reliability and to examine response patterns.
Main Results:
- The developed questionnaire demonstrated reliability and validity.
- The average score was 17.2 out of 32, indicating a high prevalence of misperceptions.
- Misperceptions were most common regarding treatment side effects, followed by proven and unproven treatments; knowledge about cancer's nature was highest.
Conclusions:
- The general public holds significant misperceptions regarding cancer and its treatments.
- Educational level and specific attitudes correlate with cancer knowledge, but age, sex, and personal/family cancer history do not.
- Targeted public health campaigns are needed to address prevalent cancer-related misinformation, particularly concerning treatment side effects.