Knowledge and awareness of early gastrointestinal cancer screening in Sunan Yugur Autonomous County in Gansu, China

Objective We aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness regarding the need for screening of early gastrointestinal cancer among residents of Sunan Yugur Autonomous County in China. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a survey among permanent residents of Sunan Yugur Autonomous County from January 2020 to January 2023 using a questionnaire to obtain data on knowledge regarding early gastrointestinal cancer screening. Results The survey included 12,000 residents. Among participants, 62.30% (7476/12,000) were aware of the need for early gastrointestinal cancer screening. Awareness about the need for early gastrointestinal cancer screening differed significantly based on participants’ sex, age, level of education, area of residence, and ethnicity. Conclusion The level of awareness regarding the need for early gastrointestinal cancer screening was relatively low in our study population. The government and medical institutions should provide information and promote early gastrointestinal cancer screening in the region to improve the health status and quality of life among the Yugur people.