Facilitators, barriers and community perceptions for oral cancer prevention and control – A qualitative study from Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Oral cancer has high prevalence, morbidity and mortality, so it is of interest to document the barriers, facilitators and suggestions with respect to oral cancer prevention and control. Hence, total 42 participants were purposively selected from population for four focus group discussions, followed by thematic analysis of data summarized under three themes i.e, barriers, facilitators and suggestions. Key barriers were limited knowledge of oral cancer, personal behaviour, attitude and socio-cultural beliefs, suboptimal human resources, infrastructure, medicines and technology, transport issues. Facilitators were trust of population in ASHA workers and doctors, personal negative experiences and changing mindset of people. Suggestions included strengthening primary healthcare services, enhancing community engagement, using mobile technology for awareness, involving local leaders and empowering women.