Public Awareness of Cancer Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Prevention Strategies Among Adults in Poland: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background/

Objectives

Cancer remains a major public health challenge, and public awareness of warning signs, risk factors, and prevention methods is essential for early detection and primary prevention. This study aimed to assess cancer knowledge among adults in Poland and identify sociodemographic factors associated with self-reported awareness.

Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted in January 2026 among 1087 adults in Poland using computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI). Non-probability quota sampling was applied based on sex, age, and place of residence.

Results

Only 12.7% of respondents reported rather high or very high cancer knowledge. The most frequently recognized warning sign was a lump, mass, or thickening (66.9%). Tobacco use (64.9%) and genetic or familial predisposition (61.8%) were the most commonly identified risk factors, whereas 41.9% recognized overweight or obesity as a cancer risk factor. Smoking cessation and participation in cancer screening programs were each identified as preventive measures by 57.5%. However, 20.8% incorrectly believed that dietary supplements protect against cancer, and 16.2% endorsed "detox" beverages as cancer-preventive. In multivariable analysis, higher education (aOR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.13-2.46), occupational activity (aOR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.02-2.37), personal history of cancer (aOR: 4.27; 95% CI: 2.75-6.64), and family history of cancer (aOR: 1.85; 95% CI: 1.25-2.73) were independently associated with higher self-reported cancer knowledge.

Conclusions

The findings indicate insufficient cancer awareness among the surveyed sample of Polish adults, particularly among men, younger adults, and individuals with lower educational attainment. Targeted educational initiatives may help improve knowledge of cancer symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies.