Thyroid Cancer Knowledge and Awareness Among Women in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most prevalent endocrine cancer, and it has shown a rapid rise in incidence across the globe in recent decades. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge about TC among women in the Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 28 December 2022 and 20 January 2023 among women in the Makkah Region via a self-administrated online questionnaire using Google Forms. Our inclusion criteria were women aged 18 years and older from the Makkah Region, and we excluded healthcare professionals and women who declined to participate in the study. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS program.Results: The sample included 1219 participants. The majority (64%, n = 784) were 18 to 35. Of the participants, 362 (29.7%) had poor knowledge of TC, and only 94 (7.7%) possessed good knowledge. Fortyfour percent of the participants (n = 541) believed that TC was incurable, and 86% (n = 1050) did not watch or participate in TC campaigns. Age, marital status, and family members or friends working in the medical field all significantly impacted the participants' knowledge scores.Conclusion: According to our study, women in the Makkah Region in Saudi Arabia do not fully comprehend the risk factors and symptoms of TC or the diagnostic methods and treatment for it. The results emphasize the value of health campaigns focused on women-in public places and on social media platforms to increase awareness of TC.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice towards thyroid nodules and cancer among patients: a cross-sectional study

“…Individuals without TC had higher knowledge scores in recognizing the benign nature of most TNs, the limited occurrence of malignancy, and the necessity for fine-needle aspiration biopsy. These insights were consistent with public awareness efforts and educational campaigns targeted at dispelling fears and misconceptions surrounding TNs (28). However, the lower correct rates regarding ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy and levothyroxine (L-T4) therapy for normal thyroid function indicated potential gaps in understanding more nuanced aspects of TN management.…”

Thyroid Cancer Knowledge and Awareness in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Similarly, in the Asir region study, the belief in no cure was only among 14.9% of individuals [10]. In contrast, a study conducted among women in Makkah regarding thyroid cancer reported that 56% of ladies believed it to be incurable [14]. Advanced treatment options, research studies, and public awareness can reduce the mortality rates of thyroid cancer.…”

“…In terms of awareness campaigns, only 10.1% had attended some special thyroid cancer campaign or watched it. Most of the participants of research on thyroid cancer awareness in Makkah reported a similarly low rate [14]. This emphasizes the need for more effective campaigns and special awareness programs against thyroid cancer.…”

“…According to one study, university students in Pakistan need to learn about the risk factors for TC [13]. TC is the second most common cancer among women in Saudi Arabia, according to the Saudi Cancer Registry [14].…”