Knowledge of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Among Primary Caregivers: An Observational and Prospective Study

BackgroundPediatric and adolescent cancer represents a significant public health issue nationally, being the leading cause of disease-related mortality in this age group. Previous studies in Greece, Turkey, and Mexico have shown that parents and/or caregivers have inadequate knowledge about this issue. Despite the World Health Organizations efforts to develop new strategies, Mexico continues to experience late diagnoses. Early identification of initial signs and symptoms by parents and/or caregivers is crucial for seeking early medical attention. ObjectiveTo assess knowledge about pediatric and adolescent cancer among primary caregivers. MethodsAn observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and prospective study was conducted at Family Medicine Unit No.69 in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, from April 2023 to January 2024. With prior informed consent, the "Parent and Caregiver Survey on Knowledge of Childhood Cancer" was administered to 374 caregivers of children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 years. Qualitative and quantitative variables were analyzed using percentages and measures of central tendency, respectively. Bivariate analysis utilized the Chi-square test through SPSS software. ResultsA total of 374 caregivers were evaluated, with an age range of 17 to 78 years ([X]=35.5, {sigma}={+/-}11.8). The majority were female (60.2%), married (48.7%), maternal caregivers (54%), had professional education (38%), and were actively employed (62.3%). Of the caregivers, 77.8% exhibited inadequate knowledge and 22.2% exhibited adequate knowledge about pediatric and adolescent cancer. Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were observed between knowledge levels and sociodemographic variables such as maternal role, age, education, marital status, and number of children. ConclusionThe alternate hypothesis that caregivers at the primary level have adequate knowledge about pediatric and adolescent cancer is rejected. It is essential to develop educational strategies to enhance knowledge about childhood cancer to improve early detection, using educational materials and audiovisual media such as the OPS video "The rhythm that gives us life" along with distributing pamphlets and questionnaires aimed at caregivers.