Esophageal cancer awareness in Bomet district, Kenya

Background: Esophageal cancer is the most common malignancy in Western Kenya and patients present with advanced disease. Objective: To determine baseline level of knowledge of esophageal cancer in Bomet District in order to develop targeted and effective educational classes. Methods: A questionnaire with twelve questions testing knowledge about esophageal cancer and eight questions aimed at determining barriers to healthcare was conducted out of Tenwek Hospital from June to July 2010. Results: Eighty-one questionnaires were completed. 33% thought that cancer is a virus and 35% thought that it is contagious. 47% did not think that family history is a risk factor. 79% accurately claimed dysphagia as the most common symptom for esophageal cancer. 40% thought that herbal therapy is the optimal treatment for esophageal cancer. Cost and fear of diagnosis were cited as the most significant barriers to healthcare. Most participants had a monthly income of less than 3000 Kenyan schillings (37.5 US dollars); for 37% of participants, the cost of transport to the hospital represented a third of their monthly income. Conclusion: The questionnaire provided population-specific information on cancer knowledge and aided in targeting barriers to healthcare access. These factors will be incorporated into the cancer education outreach program of Tenwek Hospital.