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Research Article | Volume 5 Issue 2 (July-Dec, 2024) | Pages 1 - 5
Breathing Awareness: Unveiling Public Knowledge of Lung Cancer Risks, Prevention, and Treatment in Himachal Pradesh
 ,
1
Medical officer at CH Manali, District Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.
2
Medical officer specialist at AIMSS CHAMIANA, District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.
Under a Creative Commons license
Open Access
Received
Aug. 9, 2024
Revised
Sept. 22, 2024
Accepted
Oct. 19, 2024
Published
Nov. 21, 2024
Abstract

Background: Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, yet public awareness of its risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options remains limited, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Early detection and prevention are critical to improving outcomes, but this requires a well-informed public. This study assesses the knowledge and awareness of lung cancer among the general population of Himachal Pradesh, with a focus on identifying gaps and informing targeted health interventions.Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 420 adults in Himachal Pradesh from August to October 2024. A structured, pre-validated questionnaire was used, comprising two sections: socio-demographic details and a knowledge assessment about lung cancer. The knowledge assessment included 20 multiple-choice questions covering risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and knowledge levels were categorized as very good, good, fair, and poor.Results: The study population included 46.4% males and 53.6% females, with 58.8% residing in rural areas. While 75.2% of participants correctly identified lung cancer as a tumor affecting the lungs, only 66.3% were aware of early symptoms like persistent cough. Awareness of smoking as a primary risk factor was high (84.4%), but knowledge of other risk factors, such as exposure to pollutants, was moderate (59.1%). Regarding treatment options, 63.7% identified surgery as a common modality. Knowledge scores revealed that 62.9% of participants fell into the good to very good categories, while 36.8% exhibited fair to poor knowledge, highlighting gaps in understanding, particularly among rural and lower-educated groups.Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to bridge knowledge gaps about lung cancer. Awareness campaigns focusing on symptom recognition, prevention, and treatment options, especially tailored for rural and underserved populations, are crucial. These efforts can empower individuals, promote early detection, and ultimately reduce the burden of lung cancer in Himachal Pradesh.

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