Community attitudes towards the early detection of cancer in Victoria, Australia

Abstract

Objectives: To describe people's attitudes towards early detection of cancer. Methods: We conducted a telephone survey of Victorian adults aged 18+ years, during April-May 2005, using a market research company. Results: 1,502 (41%) people participated; 80% of respondents believed that detecting cancer early meant that treatment saved lives most of the time or always; 88% believed finding cancer early enabled more effective treatment most of the time or always; and 70% indicated they would want to be tested for a cancer even if no treatment were available. Two-thirds or more of adults considered survival would be very much improved by early detection for breast, melanoma and prostate cancers;..