FEAR OF CANCER DIAGNOSIS: MAJOR CHALLENGE ASSOCIATED WITH EARLY SCREENING, SHOWS STUDY

Fortis Hospital Mumbai conducted a study with a sample size of 4,350 people in Mumbai. Out of these, 41% were Cancer patients, 29% were caregivers of Cancer patients, 26% were closely related Cancer patients and 4% had an opinion about Cancer care.

The Covid epidemic, which created havoc in the whole world, taught everyone the importance of preventive care. The citizens became more vigilant and started prioritizing their health in decreasing their predisposition to certain diseases. To understand human behavior towards another big issue, the Fortis Cancer Institute, Fortis hospital undertook this survey which showed that fear of cancer diagnosis among patients becomes a major challenge during early screening.

83% of respondents imputed prolonged tobacco consumption, unhealthy & junk meals, and evident family history to increased risk of Cancer. 3% of respondents imputed family history to be the only aspect that poses a risk for Cancer. 78% of respondents referred that all Cancers can be treated if detected early. 9% of respondents stated that Cancer could not be treated even if it's diagnosed early. 49% of respondents stated that suffering from Cancer equaled death, whereas, 51% of respondents claimed that timely intervention could help in the cure.

81% of respondents as a matter of fact stated that fear of diagnosis became a major hindrance associated with early screening and timely intervention. 72% of respondents stated that men & women gave equal importance to Cancer screening, irrespective of their family history. 17% of respondents stated that timely screening was not given due importance by either gender. 90% of respondents were aware that early screening & self-exams become helpful in the early detection of Cancer, however, 7% of respondents claimed that early screening played no role in the detection and treatment of Cancer.

80% of respondents stated that Cancer screening is necessary for everyone beyond 40yrs of age, however, 16% of respondents stated that early and timely screening is a must only if you have a strong family history of Cancer.

65% of respondents understood that Cancer could recur after completing treatment & being Cancer-free even after years. While 26% of respondents were unsure of its recurrence patterns. 48% of respondents stated that vaccinations could help in preventing certain types of Cancers; 16% stated that vaccinations played no role in Cancer prevention and 36% of respondents were unaware that vaccines are available to prevent cancer.

97% of respondents stated that the cost of a cure poses a big challenge when one seeks Cancer treatment. 83% of respondents stated that Cancer must be offered under regular health insurance coverage, however, 11% of respondents stated that it was not necessary unless one had a strong history of Cancer.

28% of respondents stated that there is a major need to build public awareness about Cancer, 26% of respondents stated that Cancer care must be made affordable for all,15% of respondents stated that access to screening must be enabled across all geographies, and 12% of respondents stated that Cancer care infrastructure must be built across tier-2 & 3 areas to make Cancer care more accessible. 11% of respondents stated sizable investments must be made to upgrade existing Cancer care facilities, and 8% of respondents stated that Tobacco use must be regulated further