Cancer awareness among adolescents in second-level education: a mixed methods systematic review

Abstract

Abstract This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence from studies that explored cancer awareness among adolescents. The systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) guidelines. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched for studies published between January 2010 and March 2022. The search was updated in April 2024. Data extraction and quality appraisal were performed. Data were synthesized narratively. A total of 21 studies were included for review. Overall, adolescents were found to have low cancer symptom awareness and to report several perceived barriers to symptomatic presentation for cancer. Adolescents also seemed underinformed about modifiable lifestyle behaviours associated with cancer, which has the potential to lead to a higher level of engagement in health risk behaviours. Findings from this review indicate the importance of actively promoting cancer awareness among adolescents. This has the potential to lead to increased knowledge and help-seeking for symptoms of cancer among adolescents, which in turn would lead to earlier diagnosis and ultimately more positive patient outcomes.