Cancer Risk Perceptions in South Australia: A Descriptive Analysis of a Population Survey

Background: Cancer is a major health issue in Australia, significantly contributing to the total disease burden. Despite well-known modifiable risk factors, engagement in healthy behaviours remains inconsistent. This study examines perceived cancer risk for various modifiable factors among a South Australian population and analyses changes over time. 

Methods: Data were collected from the Population Health Survey Module System in 2022, with 3002 participants completing the survey. The survey included questions on perceived cancer risk for various factors, using a 5-point Likert scale, and sociodemographic factors. Simple linear regressions were used to examine trends in cancer risk perceptions and changes over time (2018–2022). 

Results: Perceived risk was high for smoking and sun exposure, while risks associated with alcohol consumption and lack of immunisation were perceived as moderate. Sociodemographic predictors indicated varying perceptions based on age, gender, socioeconomic status, and cultural background. Trends over time showed slight downward perceptions for being unimmunised, spending too much time in the sun, carrying excess body fat, and smoking cigarettes. 

Conclusions: Findings highlight the need for targeted public health campaigns and greater public education to address gaps in awareness where perceptions were lower than expected, particularly regarding alcohol consumption and immunisation based on robustness of established evidence. 

So What?: Persistent gaps in public cancer risk awareness, especially for alcohol consumption and immunisation, highlight the need for targeted education. Beyond raising awareness alone, structural and systemic barriers must also be addressed to support meaningful and sustained behaviour change.