abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To examine the perceptions and understanding of oral cancer among older male drinkers and smokers in the north east of England. DESIGN: Qualitative research using focus group discussions led by an experienced moderator. SETTING: Residents of the north east of England in their community. SUBJECTS: Male alcohol drinkers and tobacco smokers over the age of 44 years and by socio-economic grouping. RESULTS: There is a lack of knowledge and understanding of the risk of oral cancer in this whole at-risk population sample. Even those who have direct contact with the disease profess ignorance. Information on health is perceived as confusing or distrusted. Much of this is linked to a fatalistic approach to serious illness. CONCLUSIONS: There appears to be a large information gap to bridge, and we need to further understand the target group for oral cancer health promotion; and to use that knowledge to design effective health promotion initiatives.