Effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding the Prevention of Lung Cancer among Adults Working in a Selected Industry at Coimbatore, India

Abstract

Background: Industrial workers may encounter occupational and lifestyle-related risk factors for lung cancer, while their knowledge of preventive measures may be limited. Aims: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding lung cancer prevention among adults working in a selected industry in Coimbatore. Study Design: A quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design without a control group was used. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a selected plastic industry in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, over a six-week data-collection period. Methodology: A total of 30 male adult workers aged 18–29 years were selected by simple random sampling using the lottery method. Baseline knowledge was assessed using a structured, self-administered questionnaire comprising 25 multiple-choice questions. A one-hour structured teaching programme was delivered through video-assisted instruction. Post-test knowledge was assessed on Day 9 using the same instrument. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, a paired t-test, and chi-square analysis. Results: Before the intervention, 83.33% of the participants (n = 25) had inadequate knowledge, whereas 16.67% (n = 5) had moderate knowledge. After the intervention, 73.33% (n = 22) demonstrated adequate knowledge and 26.67% (n = 8) demonstrated moderate knowledge. The mean post-test knowledge score (23.7 ± 2.56) was significantly higher than the mean pre-test score (10.8 ± 4.12), with a mean difference of 12.9 (t = 12.9, P < .001). Chi-square analysis showed no significant associations (P > .05) between post-test knowledge scores and the selected demographic variables. Conclusion: The structured teaching programme was effective in improving knowledge regarding lung cancer prevention among industrial workers. Workplace-based health education may be a useful preventive nursing strategy.