Leukemia among caretakers of children below 15 years attending UgandaCancer Institute. A Cross-Sectional Study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/eg8rxh05Keywords:
Leukemia, Children below 15 years, Uganda Cancer Institute, Knowledge and AttitudeAbstract
Background
Childhood leukemia is a significant health concern globally, representing a considerable proportion of cancer diagnoses in
children under 15 years of age. The study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes towards leukemia among caretakers
of children below 15 years attending the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional descriptive design to assess the knowledge and attitudes of caretakers of children with leukemia attending
the Uganda Cancer Institute in Kampala. A sample size of approximately 119 mothers was determined using convenience
sampling. Data were analyzed using statistical software SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize
sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and attitudes of caretakers.
Results
A total of 119 children were involved in the study over the period, and their caretakers were tested for their level of
knowledge regarding leukemia. The data analyzed showed that 54(45.38%) caretakers had low knowledge about leukemia,
followed by 35(28.57%) caretakers having moderate knowledge and 31(26.05%) having high knowledge about leukemia in
their children. The majority of caretakers (37.9%) have a negative attitude towards childhood leukemia. This includes fear,
stigma, or misconception about the disease. A considerable number (31.9%) had a neutral attitude, indicating uncertainty
or lack of clear understanding. Only 30.3% of the caretakers demonstrated a positive attitude, suggesting that fewer
caretakers are open to early diagnosis, treatment, and support for affected children.
Conclusion
The study highlights a concerning lack of knowledge among caretakers regarding childhood leukemia, with the majority
exhibiting low levels of understanding about the disease. This gap in awareness is critical, as it may hinder timely diagnosis
and treatment for affected children. The attitudes of caretakers towards childhood leukemia reveal a predominance of
negativity.
Recommendations
There should be implementation of comprehensive educational initiatives aimed at caretakers to improve their
understanding of childhood leukemia.
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