PARENTAL PREDISPOSING RISK FACTOR TO CANCER AMONG CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN UGANDA CANCER INSTITUTE-KAMPALA

Abstract

Background: This study investigated parental predisposing risk factors for cancer among children and adolescents in Uganda, specifically focusing on the Uganda Cancer Institute-Kampala. The study was conducted at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Methods: It applies a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative data from medical records and surveys with qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions. The investigation involved statistical analyses of data collected from 339 participants, comprising children, adolescents, and their parents or guardians.
Results: Key findings indicated that parental lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, had a direct impact on the likelihood of their children developing cancer. Specifically, the children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer were exposed to second-hand smoke and had parents who consumed alcohol regularly. Exposure to second-hand smoke and alcohol-related carcinogens during prenatal development and early childhood could increase cancer risk.
Conclusion: These findings emphasized the need for targeted interventions to educate parents about the risks associated with these behaviors. The study concluded that addressing parental factors through targeted interventions, improved healthcare infrastructure and policy reforms is essential to reducing cancer incidence and improving outcomes among children and adolescents in Uganda.