Exploring perceived changes in cancer-related awareness, knowledge and perception following a community-based intervention among rural communities in Kogi state, Nigeria

The rise in cancer burden in resource-limited settings is worrisome. This has been attributed to a lack of awareness, knowledge, misconceptions, and the unavailability of screening and effective management services. There is a need for increased cancer awareness and the provision of accessible and affordable screening services, especially among rural dwellers. This study explored perceived changes in cancer-related awareness, knowledge, and perceptions following a community-based intervention on cancer among six rural communities in Kogi State, Nigeria. A qualitative study design using focus group discussions (FGD) was employed. Four FGD (two pre-intervention and two post-intervention) were conducted among purposively selected community stakeholders. The intervention included community sensitisation, awareness campaigns, radio programmes, distribution of behavioural change communication materials, and free cervical and prostate cancer screening. Data were analysed thematically using a deductive and inductive approach. A total of 31 participants (mean age 55.1 years; male-to-female ratio 1.58:1) took part in the FGD. The pre-intervention findings indicated limited awareness and widespread misconceptions about cancer. Post-intervention discussions suggested improved awareness, better understanding of cancer types (breast, cervical, and prostate), risk factors, symptoms, and a shift toward more biomedical perceptions. Participants’ reports suggest that the intervention may have supported engagement with underserved populations, highlighting the importance of community-based approaches in addressing health inequities. These findings emphasise the importance of tailored, community-driven interventions in addressing health disparities and promoting cancer awareness in resource-limited settings. The findings suggest perceived improvements in cancer-related awareness, knowledge, and perception following the community-based intervention on cancer among rural communities in Kogi State, Nigeria.