Knowledge of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Among Primary Caregivers: An Observational and Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Childhood and adolescent cancer represents a significant public health issue, being the leading cause of disease-related mortality in this age group. Previous studies in Greece, Turkey, and Mexico have shown that parents and caregivers lack adequate knowledge about this topic. Despite WHO efforts to create new strategies, late diagnosis persists in Mexico. Early identification of initial signs and symptoms by parents and caregivers is crucial for seeking timely medical care. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of childhood and adolescent cancer among primary caregivers in primary care settings. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and prospective study was conducted at Family Medicine Unit No. 69 in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, from April 2023 to January 2024. The "Survey for parents and caregivers about knowledge of cancer in children" by Dr. Ana Cecilia Vazquez was administered with prior informed consent. Qualitative and quantitative variables were analyzed using percentages and measures of central tendency, respectively. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-square test with SPSS software. Results: A total of 374 caregivers were evaluated, with an age range of 17 to 78 years (X̅=35.5, σ= ± 11.8). The majority were female (60.2%), married (48.7%), maternal caregivers (54%), with professional education (38%), and employed (62.3%). 77.8% of the caregivers had inadequate knowledge, while 22.2% had adequate knowledge about childhood and adolescent cancer. There was a statistically significant association (p<0.05) between knowledge and sociodemographic variables such as maternal role, age, education level, marital status, and number of children. Conclusion: The alternate hypothesis that primary caregivers possess adequate knowledge of childhood and adolescent cancer is rejected. It is essential to develop educational strategies to increase knowledge about childhood cancer to improve early detection. This includes using educational materials and audiovisual media such as the PAHO video "The rhythm that gives us life" and distributing brochures and questionnaires targeted at caregivers. Keywords: cancer, child, childhood, adolescent, adolescence.