Awareness of Cancer Risk Factors, Protective Factors, Symptoms and Barriers to Seek Medical Advice among Adult...

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide with a growing burden and most cases are attributable to modifiable factors and behaviors. Increased cancer awareness is the cornerstone to promote early detection and increase survival rates.

To assess the public awareness level regarding cancer risk factors, warning symptoms, practice protective factors, and barriers to seeking medical help among the Saudi population.

A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among adult Saudis using the Arabic version of Cancer Awareness Measure. Data were collected using a self-administered online survey.

Among the 1101 participants surveyed, one-third had a family history of cancer. Key risk factors included a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (51.68%), consumption of smoked, processed, and red meat (25%), and insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables (53.3%). The majority did not exercise regularly (76.2%), with 19.4% being smokers and 46.3% exposed to passive smoking. Social media was the primary source of cancer information. However, 70.8% did not engage with cancer-related content, and 85.3% had not undergone regular cancer screening. The most recognized symptom was an "unexplained lump or swelling" (72.8%), and smoking was identified as the top risk factor (78.0%). Barriers to seeking early medical advice included fear (67.0%) and worry about diagnosis (66.5%). On average, participants recognized 4 out of 9 warning signs, 5 out of 11 risk factors, and 5 out of 11 barriers, indicating the need for increased awareness and proactive health behaviors. Further, many significant differences were found based on participants' demographics.

It is imperative to implement population-based programs aimed at raising public awareness and encouraging the use of cancer screening and preventative measures. It is advised that healthcare providers step up their efforts to educate the public about cancer.