Cancer is a major public health concern. However, increasing awareness has not always led to better preventionor early help seeking. This study introduces the Psychosocial Cancer Behaviour (PsyCaB) Model to explain howpeople respond to cancer in real-world situations. The model is based on research conducted among tertiarystudents in Punjab, India. It examines awareness, perceived risks, stigma, emotional responses, and access tocare.The findings show that knowledge alone does not lead to action. Many people are aware of the risks andsymptoms of cancer but do not perceive themselves as being at risk. Fear and anxiety also affect decision-making.Some people avoid seeking care because of these feelings. Stigma and fear of social judgment further delay helpseeking. Simultaneously, social support and access to healthcare influence people’s actions.The PsyCaB Model combines these factors. This shows that behaviour develops through the interaction ofpsychological, social, and structural influences. It also shows that behaviour can change over time.This study highlights the need to go beyond awareness. Interventions should also address emotions, stigma, andaccess to care issues. This model can guide future research and support better approaches to cancer preventionand car
Elliason et al. (Tue,) studied this question.