Knowledge and Beliefs of Blood Cancer among Affected and Unaffected Persons in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Awareness and adequate knowledge regarding blood cancers is a crucial intervention for proper management and control. Objectives: This study aimed to quantify and compare the level of knowledge among affected and unaffected persons, identify possible determinants of good knowledge and local pattern of beliefs regarding blood cancers.  Materials And Methods: A cross sectional, pilot survey of 90 participants (45 with established blood cancer diagnosis; other 45 were not blood cancer patients) was undertaken. Data on personal details, knowledge and beliefs of blood cancer were collected using a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Results: The mean ± SEM age of the study participants was 42.1±1.8 years. Most respondents (45.6%) had a moderate level of knowledge regarding blood cancers. The mean knowledge score among affected and unaffected persons were 4.6 and 6.2 (total of 11) respectively. About 29% of the participants had a good knowledge. A higher (tertiary) level of education and being unaffected by blood cancer were associated with a better level of knowledge.  Some local beliefs regarding cause of blood cancers included spiritual attacks from an enemy, exposure to open (naked) fire and punishment for committed sins.  Conclusion: The level of knowledge regarding blood cancer among affected persons is below average. Necessary interventions should be directed at improving awareness and knowledge of blood cancer among affected and unaffected persons by physicians and other relevant stakeholders.