Perceptions about the causes and treatment of cancer – A cross-sectional survey of university students in Ghana

Cancer awareness campaigns in Ghana and many parts of the world have gathered pace in recent years. Despite this encouraging trend, there has been no significant reduction in stigma in Ghana. This study investigated the role of beliefs about the causes of cancer in stigmatization and perceptions about treatment. Using standardized scales deployed in a survey, the study measured student perceptions about the causes of cancer, stigmatization, and opinion about the possibility of treating cancer. 225 students were sampled from two universities in the Ghanaian capital of Accra. The study used multiple linear regression and a logistic regression to answer two research questions. These asked whether beliefs in the mythical causes of cancer are associated with stigma towards cancer and whether this stigma is associated with the belief that cancer cannot be treated. The findings point to the association between perceived causes of cancer and stigma. Stigmatization was associated with the belief that cancer could not be treated. The findings imply that the perceived causes of cancer are associated with stigma and should thus be addressed by campaigners. Educating the public about the causes of cancer and addressing some of the myths can help reduce stigma and correct misperceptions about treatment.