Public awareness of liver cancer among the Egyptian population; A Cross-sectional study

Bendary, Mohamed Mahmoud; Abdelrahman, Amira Ismaiel; Atef, Nora

doi:10.21608/ejcm.2025.327790.1337

Public awareness of liver cancer among the Egyptian population; A Cross-sectional study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Epidemiology and Biostatistics, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Egypt

10.21608/ejcm.2025.327790.1337

Abstract

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common malignancy globally and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, particularly in Egypt, where it is the most prevalent cancer among men. Early detection and public awareness are critical for reducing the incidence and progression of HCC. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness of liver cancer risk factors and symptoms among the Egyptian population.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 690 Egyptians aged ≥18 years. Participants completed a structured, self-administered online questionnaire assessing their awareness of liver cancer risk factors and symptoms. The threshold for good awareness was set at 60% of the maximum score (≥12/21 correct responses).
Results: Among the 690 participants, 55.1% (n=385) demonstrated good awareness of liver cancer risk factors and symptoms. Higher awareness was significantly associated with female gender (62.9%, p < 0.001), postgraduate education (96.4%, p=0.001), and participation in national liver health initiatives (60.8%, p=0.005). Major recognized risk factors included cirrhosis (83.6%), aflatoxins exposure (76%), and chronic hepatitis (71.4%). Commonly identified symptoms included fatigue (78%), jaundice (72.1%), and hematemesis (65%).
Conclusion: The study reveals a moderate level of awareness regarding liver cancer risk factors and symptoms among Egyptians, with notable gaps in specific demographic groups. Higher awareness was associated with factors like education and participation in national health initiatives. However, continued public health education efforts are needed to ensure widespread understanding of liver cancer risks and the importance of early detection.

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