Social Media's Role in Enhancing Cancer Awareness and Screening Among the B40 Population in Shah Alam, Klang Valley
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Abstract
Social media extensively disseminates cancer awareness and influences prevention and early screening behaviours. Despite widespread use, health inequalities persist, particularly among lower-income individuals. Limited understanding exists about how the B40 population in Malaysia (representing the bottom 40% of household incomes) utilizes social media for various cancer screening awareness and behaviours. This study examined the relationship between social media reliance for cancer awareness and screening behaviour among Malaysia's B40 population. The aim is to understand the effectiveness of social media platforms in promoting knowledge on cancer among the lower income population. Materials and methods: A self-administered online survey was conducted on the Facebook platform, involving 397 B40 respondents from Klang Valley, specifically in Shah Alam. The survey instrument assessed demographic information, participants' general knowledge of cancer awareness, and their inclinations toward early cancer screening. Results: The cancer awareness within this population is relatively low, with 45.1% having low awareness, 45.8% possessing moderate knowledge, and only 9% exhibiting a high level of awareness regarding cancer. Despite the low awareness levels, a majority of the B40 population demonstrates a moderate to high dependence on social media for accessing information related to cancer screening. Conclusion: The awareness of cancer among the B40 population in Klang Valley was unsatisfactory, indicating the necessity for additional information dissemination about cancer and its risks. This is particularly crucial for the low-income population, as it could potentially assist in promoting a healthier lifestyle, thereby averting unnecessary treatment costs through prevention.
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