A Comprehensive Analysis of Cancer Risk in Rural Bangladeshi Women
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Abstract
Background: Cervical and breast cancers are the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among women in Bangladesh, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. The high prevalence of these cancers is influenced by socioeconomic, cultural, and lifestyle factors. This study aims to assess the risk factors, awareness, health-seeking behaviors, and potential biomarker-based detection of cervical and breast cancers among rural Bangladeshi women. Objective: To investigate the interplay of risk factors, knowledge, attitudes, and health-seeking behaviors related to cervical and breast cancers among rural Bangladeshi women and explore the feasibility of biomarker-based detection. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2022, involving 300 women who visited hospitals with breast and cervix-related concerns. Data were collected through structured interviews and clinical reports, including sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, awareness levels, and risk factors. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant associations. Results: The majority of participants (30%) were aged 40-49 years, with 36.7% having no formal education. Nearly 56.7% were married before 18 years, and 30% had five or more children. Common symptoms included abnormal vaginal discharge (43.3%) and breast lumps (23.3%). Risk factors such as tobacco use (26.7%, p=0.001), oral contraceptive use (>5 years) (30%, p=0.04), and a family history of cancer (16.7%, p=0.03) were significantly associated with cancer risk. Awareness was moderate, with 60% having heard of cervical cancer and 66.7% aware of breast cancer. However, knowledge of early detection methods was low. Conclusion: Rural Bangladeshi women face significant barriers to cancer prevention and early detection due to low literacy, early marriage, high parity, and inadequate awareness. Targeted interventions, including educational campaigns and improved screening accessibility, are essential to reduce the cancer burden in this population.
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