Assessment of the Role of Community Pharmacists in Promoting Cancer Awareness among Under 50 Populations in Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Lagos State

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a major public health challenge in both developing and developed countries, with an increasing incidence among people under-50 years old. The shortage of trained healthcare workers is a major public health challenge faced by developing countries such as Nigeria. This has taken a toll on the provision of the country’s healthcare services to the populace. However, community pharmacists (CPs) whose services are readily accessible to the public, can help reduce cancer incidence in the country by raising public awareness.
Objective: This study assessed the role of community pharmacists in promoting cancer awareness among the under-50 population in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area (LGA) of Lagos State, Nigeria
Methodology: Two sets of self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data in a cross- sectional survey. The sample size was 385, 371 responses were received and the data were analysed using a python analysis programmme with descriptive statistics.
Result: The CPs had a good knowledge of certain cancer topics, a positive attitude towards promoting cancer awareness, and have been involved in related activities. However, there was a knowledge gap regarding screening guidelines and common cancers among young people. Their activities generally targeted “all age groups” and mainly involved verbal counselling during medication dispensing. The under-50 population generally held a positive view of the CPs’ activities, although only 40.8% had received health education or information about cancer from them. Barriers reported by the CPs include a lack of training, resource materials and poor interest among young people.
Conclusion: The study revealed high level of knowledge among CPs on several cancer topics, with a gap in screening guidelines and in awareness of common cancers among young people. They were involved in cancer awareness promotion to some extent, as most of them believe they play a role in it. It is recommended that CPs be trained and provided with resource materials to enhance awareness promotion activities among the under-50 population in Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Lagos State.