Investigating Cancer literacy and help-seeking barriers among individuals with intellectual disabilities in Hungary

Objective This study examined cancer literacy and help-seeking barriers among adults with intellectual disabilities in Hungary. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2024 and January 2026 with 380 adults with mild-to-moderate intellectual disabilities, recruited using simple random sampling within institutional and community-based settings. Cancer knowledge and perceived barriers were assessed using an adapted, easy-to-read Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM). Data were analyzed using nonparametric tests and multivariable linear regression with bootstrapped confidence intervals. Results Participants showed moderate knowledge of warning signs (61.3% of maximum) and risk factors (66.3%), but poor knowledge of prevention (53.7%) and a moderate level of perceived barriers (50.7%). Living with family was independently associated with higher barriers, whereas care home residence was associated with higher risk factors and prevention knowledge in bivariate analyses. Employment and marital status were associated with multiple outcomes. Greater risk-factor knowledge was associated with higher barriers, whereas greater prevention knowledge was associated with fewer barriers. Conclusions Primary prevention knowledge gaps persist, and structural factors such as living arrangements and employment are associated with help-seeking. Accessible, prevention-focused education and system-level adaptations may support earlier detection and improved outcomes.