Effectiveness of Targeted Oral Cancer Screening Programs in Young Adults

Summery

This study highlights important findings regarding cancer risk factors, awareness, and screening participation among young adults (18–35 years) in Rajkot.

A notable proportion of participants showed risk factors such as tobacco use (20%), unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, and low physical activity, along with 21% reporting a family history of cancer. Despite moderate awareness of screening programs (63.5%), actual participation was very low (21%), with only 5% undergoing formal screening. Major barriers included lack of awareness, fear, limited access, and financial constraints.

Awareness of cancer treatment and diagnostic methods was moderate but varied with age and exposure to healthcare information. Importantly, better knowledge was linked to a higher willingness to quit tobacco. While many participants recognized early symptoms of oral cancer, gaps in knowledge about asymptomatic cases and diagnostic tests were evident, affecting early detection.

To improve screening uptake, key strategies include increasing awareness through social media and education, improving accessibility via workplaces and institutions, offering affordable screening, providing proper counselling, and reducing stigma.

Overall, the study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted, youth-focused cancer prevention and screening initiatives to reduce modifiable risks and promote early detection.