Risk awareness on uterine cancer among Australian women

George M, Abu Asab N, Varughese E, Irwin M, Oldmeadow C, Hollebone K, Apen K, Renner S (2014)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2014

Journal

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention Asian Pacific Organization for Cancer Prevention

Publisher: Asian Pacific Organization for Cancer Prevention

Book Volume: 15

Pages Range: 10251-4

Journal Issue: 23

Abstract

Uterine cancer is the most common invasive gynaecological cancer in Australia. Early detection is a key predictive factor achieved by increasing public awareness and participation in screening. This observational study measures awareness of gynaecological malignancies, particularly uterine, among women in two rural areas of New South Wales, Australia. Patients presenting to gynaecology clinics in January to March 2014 were invited to complete a structured questionnaire. Women with a history of cancer and incomplete questionnaires were excluded. Of the 382 patients invited to participate, 329 (86%) responded with complete feedback. Most respondents were younger than than 50 years (66%) and married with at least 2 children (74%). The majority (94%) of participants had no awareness of uterine cancer and many (46%) were unable to identify common risk factors including obesity, diabetes and hypertension. The ability to identify risk factors was correlated to age, marital status and obesity. The study identifies poor awareness on uterine malignancies in two typical areas of rural Australia. Although external validity is limited by sociological factors, poor awareness of uterine cancer among rural patients in this study represents a valid public health concern. It is imperative to improve awareness of uterine cancer and available screening programs to facilitate early detection and cure.

Authors with CRIS profile

Stefan Renner Medizinische Fakultät

Involved external institutions

University of New England AU Australia (AU) University of Newcastle (UoN) AU Australia (AU) Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital AU Australia (AU) Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) AU Australia (AU)

How to cite

APA:

George, M., Abu Asab, N., Varughese, E., Irwin, M., Oldmeadow, C., Hollebone, K.,... Renner, S. (2014). Risk awareness on uterine cancer among Australian women. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 15(23), 10251-4.

MLA:

George, Mathew, et al. "Risk awareness on uterine cancer among Australian women." Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 15.23 (2014): 10251-4.

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