Awareness and Knowledge of Cancer: A Community Survey in Kedah and Perlis

Cancer is one the leading causes of death in developed countries and the second leading cause of death in developing countries. Awareness and knowledge of the danger of cancer and the need for cancer screening and early detection can reduce the risk of cancer-related deaths. This study examines the level of awareness and knowledge of cancer, cancer risk factors and the need for cancer screening among the general public in the states of Kedah and Perlis. This study also examines the relationship between residential location and education level and the awareness and knowledge of cancer. Findings from 544 respondents from urban, suburban and rural areas in Kedah and Perlis showed that even though a high percentage of the respondents know about cancer, their level of awareness for the need for cancer screening is still low. Education, access to healthcare facilities and socio-cultural factors still influenced the likelihood of the people to go for cancer screening and get cancer treatment. Therefore, health information and communication and cancer screening awareness campaign should be intensified to reach the public especially to the rural population. These efforts and initiatives can increase public access to information about cancer, and cancer screening and treatment facilities among the rural population, and especially those belonging to high-risk groups.