Awareness towards Cancer Attributable to Infections (CAI): A Lebanese study with a special focus on young adults, and adults

Abstract

Introduction. Around two million cancer cases per year are caused by infections. Currently, there is a lack of studies assessing awareness of the link between infections and cancer in Lebanon. This knowledge is essential for the effective prevention, early detection, and management of these cancers. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the level of awareness of cancer attributable to infections (CAI) in Lebanon especially among young adults, and adults.

Methods. A cross-sectional, descriptive research study was conducted for two months in Beirut, Beqaa, Mount Lebanon, South Lebanon, and North Lebanon. A valid and reliable survey was distributed to participants. The survey was divided into two sections: socio-demographic information and awareness of CAI.

Result. Approximately 43.4% of participants knew that hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) cause liver cancer. Around 34.9% knew that human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer. About 33.5% knew that stomach cancer is caused by Helicobacter pylori. Around 20% were aware of the association between Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and Kaposi sarcoma, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and lymphoma. Around 27.7% of them had received the HBV vaccine. Only 11.8% of them had received the HPV vaccine.

Conclusion. In Lebanon, young adults, and adults did not demonstrate the same level of awareness regarding the various types of CAI. Awareness levels increased among females, Lebanese individuals, healthcare workers, highly educated individuals, and those with a middle family income