The researchers conducted this study to determine awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and identify barriers to help-seeking and predictors of a long time to help-seeking in a female population-based sample.
A UK population-based sample of 1000 women completed the Ovarian Cancer Awareness Measure by telephone interview. Questions measured symptom awareness, barriers, and scheduled time for help-seeking. Regression analyses identified predictors of a higher score on a scale of anticipated time to help-seeking.
Most women were unable to recall any symptoms, but 99% recognized at least one. Recognition was lowest for difficulty eating and persistently feeling full. In the sample overall, the higher socio-economic status and higher endorsement of practical and service barriers independently predicted a longer anticipated time to help-seeking for more symptoms. White ethnicity was an additional predictor in the older subgroup.
The study concluded that an awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms is low and varies widely between symptoms. It identifies variables that may be involved in a long time to help-seeking for possible ovarian cancer symptoms and highlight the need for more in-depth research into the factors related to time to help-seeking in real-world situations.
Reference: https://srh.bmj.com/content/39/3/163
