In a new national survey, researchers found only 25% of U.S. adults report incorporating cancer prevention into their daily lives.
This is the finding of the American Society of Clinical Oncology 2019 National Cancer Opinion Survey.
The Harris Poll conducted the survey online on behalf of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
Researchers surveyed 5,010 U.S. adults, among which 1,009 had cancer, 668 had an immediate family member with cancer, and 496 were caregivers for a family member with cancer.
The team found that most respondents are worried about cancer (57%), but only 24% incorporate cancer prevention into their daily lives.
About one-third of respondents believe cancer is caused by lifestyle choices. About two-thirds of respondents say they do not know which sources of information about cancer are reliable.
In addition, many people do not know what to do to reduce their risk. Thirty-one and 23 percent of the general population, respectively, do not know that alcohol and certain viral infections are cancer risk factors.
The team found that just over half of adults (53%) have thought about end-of-life care.
Among those with cancer, 66% have thought about end-of-life care, but only 26% have discussed end-of-life care with a physician.
The team says the survey shows common American people’s views on a range of cancer-related issues and exposes problems that are important to solve.
The leader of the study is Howard A. “Skip” Burris III, M.D., president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
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