Lung Cancer Awareness Among Lebanese General Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background Lung cancer is a significant contributor to mortality worldwide, with an expected further increase in its incidence in the upcoming years, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess the level of lung cancer awareness among the Lebanese general population using the Lung Cancer Awareness Measurement (LCAM) tool. Methods An online-based, self-administered questionnaire was completed by 410 participants all over Lebanon. A validated LCAM tool comprising recall and recognition questions was used to assess participants’ awareness of lung cancer. Multivariate analysis using Generalized Linear model and post-hoc analysis were performed after assessing validity and reliability of the scale. Results Only 13.7% correctly recognized age-related lung cancer risk, while 60.7% thought age was unrelated. Warning signs were poorly recalled, with persistent cough being the most remembered (58%), and coughing up blood being highly recognized (87.8%). Participants struggled to recognize persistent shoulder pain (28.7%) and finger/nail changes (29.51%) as possible warning signs of lung cancer. Multivariate analysis showed that governorates, educational level, and occupation significantly affected warning signs-scores. Post-hoc analysis revealed that people residing in Bekaa scored approximately two times lower warning sign recognition scales compared with participants residing in Beirut, Mount Lebanon, and North Lebanon. Postgraduates and medical field workers were able to recognize symptoms compared to others, with the latter scoring higher recall scales as well. Smoking was the most recalled and recognized risk factor (82% and 95.6%). Females, postgraduates, and medical workers showed higher risk factor recognition. While 75% were willing to seek medical attention for lung cancer suspicion, 58% lacked confidence in identifying warning signs. Conclusion Despite positive proactive approach toward seeking medical attention, insufficient warning signs awareness along with low confidence in identifying lung cancer hinders early diagnosis. Extensive awareness campaigns focusing on age-related misconceptions, warning signs, and risk factors hold immense promise for improved therapeutic outcomes.