Assessment of Cancer Patients' Relatives' Knowledge, Perception, and Attitude Toward Cancer

Abstract

Background Assessment of cancer patients' relatives' knowledge, perception, and attitude regarding cancer. To spread awareness about oral cancer in areas with a high prevalence of cancer, aid in its prevention, and accelerate the treatment to facilitate early-stage disease elimination and improve prognosis.  Material and methods A cross-sectional study conducted at a hospital was done, where 23 questions were posed to the relatives of the patients admitted to the hospital. The questions were formulated to assess the knowledge of relatives regarding cancer, their perception, and their attitude toward the decision-making and treatment protocols. The questions also included information about the patient's habits and associated problems with it. A total of 400 relatives participated in the study, where all participants were adequately informed beforehand, and their written consent was taken before proceeding with the questions. All the questions were formulated in the native language that they could easily understand.  Result The study found that participants had limited knowledge about the causes, treatment, prevention, and recurrence of oral cancer. Additionally, the family members were unsupportive of therapy and delayed seeking medical care. Conclusion It is crucial to raise awareness about oral cancer and inform individuals about available treatments, government programs, and counseling services to aid them in decision-making.