Knowledge, Attitudes, and Screening Practices for Lung Cancer in Uzbekistan: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study.

[OBJECTIVE] Lung cancer is among the most lethal cancers worldwide and ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Uzbekistan. Despite its growing burden, public knowledge and participation in early screening remain poorly understood in the region. This study aimed to assess general awareness, attitudes, and practices related to lung cancer and its screening among the adult population of Uzbekistan.

[METHODS] A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January 25 and February 3, 2025, involving 561 participants from all 14 regions of Uzbekistan. A structured, validated questionnaire was used to assess socio-demographic data, lung cancer knowledge, risk perception, and willingness to participate in screening. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, ANOVA, and multivariable analysis, such as linear regression and logistic regression were employed to examine associations between knowledge scores and demographic variables. Knowledge was categorized as poor, moderate, or good.

[RESULTS] Only 4% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, while 79% had poor knowledge about lung cancer and its early detection. Although 73.2% recognized smoking as a major risk factor, only 37.4% were aware of early screening methods such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with older age, higher education, income, and urban residence (p < 0.05). Gender and smoking status were not significantly correlated with knowledge levels.

[CONCLUSIONS] This nationally representative study reveals substantial gaps in public awareness of lung cancer and its screening in Uzbekistan. Targeted public health interventions focusing on youth, rural populations, and individuals with lower educational backgrounds are urgently needed. Expanding educational outreach and increasing access to early detection services may significantly improve outcomes and reduce mortality in high-risk populations.