What do Somalian Nurses Know About Esophageal Cancer? A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Esophageal cancer (EC) is increasing in Somalia. To be a knowledgeable nurse, it is essential to create awareness in the public and individuals regarding screening. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of EC among Somalian nurses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Somalian nurses to elicit information regarding their knowledge of EC at Banadir Government Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia. Data were collected using a self-designed questionnaire. RESULTS: The Somalian nurses' mean age was 25.15 +/- 1.4 years. 47.6% had visited a doctor 1-2 times within the prior year, 60.5% were not willing to be screened for EC, and 80.3% were willing to receive further education on this issue. Barrett's esophagus (70.1%), reflux (70.1%), alcohol use (85.0%), smoking (68.0%), and gender (68.7%) were most commonly known as being the risk factors for EC, while the least known risk factors were race, obesity, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, diet, the presence of FOXF1 and BARX1 genes and low socioeconomic status. The nurses' knowledge rates about risk factors, diagnosis/symptoms, and treatment were found to be moderate. Visiting a doctor within the past year was a significant predictor for having correct knowledge regarding the diagnosis, symptoms and treatment of the Somalian nurses who participated in this study (p<0.005). CONCLUSION: We found that Somalian nurses' knowledge was moderate. Knowledge may be raised among Somalian nurses by establishing continuous education programs regarding ECs.