Determination of The Level of Knowledge of Students Studying in The First and Emergency Aid Program About Cancer Screening

Abstract

Cancer screening is a crucial public health intervention aimed at early detection and reducing mortality. Health professionals, especially First and Emergency Aid students, play a vital role in promoting awareness and guiding individuals on screening. Understanding their knowledge level is important for shaping effective education programs. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the 2024–2025 academic year with 1st and 2nd year students enrolled in the First and Emergency Aid Program at a foundation university. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the "Knowledge Scale for Cancer Screenings." A total of 73 volunteer students participated. The reliability of the scale was confirmed with Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.796. 63% of the students had prior knowledge about cancer screenings, with breast cancer being the most recognized. The overall knowledge level was moderate. Significant associations were found between knowledge level and variables such as gender, grade level, and health insurance status. However, smoking, alcohol use, employment status, and family history of cancer showed no significant effect. The findings indicate a need for restructuring cancer screening education in the curriculum of emergency aid students. Enhancing knowledge through targeted training may improve their role as future healthcare providers.

Keywords: Cancer, screening, health education, emergency aid, knowledge level, students