Self-reported awareness of the prevention and early detection of oral cancer: a survey of 50+ year old people in Germany

Abstract Purpose Tumours of the oral cavity are an under-recognised type of cancer, with many people being diagnosed at a late tumour stage. This study investigated knowledge of signs, symptoms and risk factors of oral cancer in association with socio-demographic factors in a German sample, with the aim of developing an awareness campaign. Methods Computer-assisted telephone interviews ( n = 1801) were conducted among a representative sample of the German population aged 50 and older. Descriptive statistics of demographic variables and responses to the questionnaires were reported by means of counts and percentages. Associations between socio-demographic factors and knowledge of diagnostic items and risk factors were analysed. Results Overall, diagnostic knowledge and knowledge of risk factors were low to moderate. The knowledge levels were even lower among participants who were older, had lower school education, or had lower net monthly household income. Although the respective vulnerable groups were well aware of tobacco consumption as a risk factor, the awareness of the risk factors of older age and alcohol consumption was lower. Conclusion This national survey demonstrates that the German population is not sufficiently informed about the signs, symptoms and risk factors of oral cancer. Knowledge deficits were particularly associated with older age, lower levels of education and low income. The planned national awareness campaign aims to inform the public, especially vulnerable subgroups, about oral cancer, its diagnostic signs andspecific risk factors. In the development, implementation and evaluation of this campaign, age, education level and income should be considered.