A fatalistic attitude about getting cancer is a major reason why people do not get colon cancer screenings, even when they are free, according to a Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention report.
In a study conducted in England, where colon cancer screenings and subsequent treatments are free, many people of lower socioeconomic status nevertheless chose not to get screened.
People of higher socioeconomic status, better self-rated health and lower cancer fatalism were 56 percent more likely to undergo colorectal cancer screening by fecal occult blood testing. Researchers said cancer fatalism could be reduced if properly identified.
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