Knowledge Levels and Life Style Practices for Cancer Prevention among Bangladeshi People

Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge level and life style practices of the respondents on the common cancer risk factors.

Methodology: We conducted a cross sectional online survey from December 2015 to May 2016 among the Bangladeshi people. A survey questionnaire was developed based on the WHO country level cancer risk assessment report. 407 respondents were invited randomly using social networks and personal communication to take part into the survey. We included 253 respondents with information of knowledge and current life style practices towards cancer prevention. Age ranges and years of education information were included. After completion of the study statistical analysis was performed by Fisher’s Exact Test or Chi-squared test using IBM SPSS Statistics 20.

Results: Of the total 253 respondents, only one-third of the respondents irrespective of age groups- No vs. Yes: 96 (37.95%) vs. 157 (62.05%), p<0.00001 had known that cancer can be prevented by modifying life styles. Female respondents had remarkably lower level of knowledge and perception on specific cancer prevention knowledge compared to their male counterpart. About 67% (n=169) and 47% (n=113) of the respondents knew about the impact of chewing or smoking tobacco and non-food grade preservatives, chemicals, ripening agents on developing cancer, respectively; however, only one-fourth (n=73, 28.65%) respondents knew that physical inability or obesity is a risk factor for cancer. Stopped/never smoking, avoid consuming food with food additives / preservatives, alcohol consumption were found the three most common practices among the respondents towards cancer prevention.

Conclusion: The study provides important baseline information on preventable cancer risk perception in Bangladesh. The study results indicate that a comprehensive cancer awareness program is needed to reduce the cancer burden in Bangladesh.