CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background Of The Study
Leukaemia is a malignant disorder of the blood and bone marrow characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells, which disrupt normal hematologic processes and immune competence. It is broadly classified into acute and chronic forms, as well as lymphoblastic and myeloid subtypes, each varying in progression, clinical presentation, and prognosis (Talabi et al., 2021). The disease interferes with the production of functional red blood cells, platelets, and mature white cells, thereby predisposing affected individuals to anemia, recurrent infections, and bleeding tendencies (Roomaney et al., 2024). These pathological changes compromise overall health status and quality of life, particularly among adults who may already face age related physiological decline (Phillips et al., 2025). Understanding the biological nature and systemic implications of leukaemia provides an essential conceptual foundation for examining how men perceive and respond to the disease within specific sociocultural contexts.
Globally, leukaemia represents a significant proportion of cancer incidence and mortality, with marked variations across regions and demographic groups. Recent global estimates indicate that hundreds of thousands of new cases occur annually, with adult men showing notable incidence rates in several low and middle income countries (Surakat et al., 2023; Adam et al., 2025). Across Africa, the burden of hematologic malignancies is increasing, partly due to population growth and improved diagnostic capabilities, yet mortality remains high because of late presentation and limited access to specialized care (Olukanni et al., 2020; Olubodun et al., 2024). Furthermore, disparities in health systems infrastructure affect survival outcomes and continuity of care. These continental patterns situate Nigeria within a broader global cancer landscape, emphasizing the importance of awareness, early detection, and informed attitudes among adult male populations.
Within Nigeria, leukaemia contributes to the growing incidence of non communicable diseases documented in hospital based cancer registries (Kayode & Awoyemi, 2021). Survival outcomes are influenced by access to hematology and oncology services, availability of chemotherapy, and supportive care facilities, which remain unevenly distributed across the country (Wahab et al., 2020; Jaiyeola et al., 2025). Studies on cancer awareness among Nigerian men suggest varying levels of knowledge, often shaped by educational attainment, exposure to media campaigns, and interaction with healthcare professionals (Osikomaiya, 2021; Kareem et al., 2020). Health seeking behavior among men is also influenced by perceptions of vulnerability and the perceived severity of disease. Effective health communication has therefore been recognized as central to enhancing early detection and improving treatment adherence within the Nigerian context (Famoofo & Adeniyi, 2020).
Cultural and social perceptions further shape attitudes toward cancer in many Nigerian communities. Cancer is sometimes associated with stigma, spiritual interpretations, or fatalistic beliefs that may influence individual responses to diagnosis and treatment (Eniolorunda et al., 2021). Masculinity norms often encourage resilience and stoicism, which can affect men’s willingness to discuss symptoms or seek medical attention promptly (Saheed & Ireti, 2020). In addition, reliance on informal information networks and traditional explanations for illness may shape understanding of leukaemia and its risk factors (Olarewaju et al., 2020). Such sociocultural dynamics underscore the importance of examining men’s knowledge and attitudes within specific local contexts, as these perceptions directly inform health related decisions and engagement with biomedical care.
Previous empirical investigations into cancer knowledge among adult men reveal mixed levels of awareness regarding symptoms, susceptibility, and modifiable risk factors such as environmental exposure and lifestyle behaviors (B. et al., 2021; Olubodun et al., 2025). Nonetheless, research focusing specifically on leukaemia remains limited compared to studies on more widely publicized cancers. In the context of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, understanding local perspectives becomes particularly relevant given the town’s mix of urban and semi urban characteristics and its evolving health communication environment. Assessing men’s knowledge and attitudes in this setting will contribute context specific evidence necessary for designing culturally responsive education and awareness initiatives. The motivation for this study therefore arises from the need to generate empirical insights into how men in Ijebu-Ode understand and perceive leukaemia, thereby informing targeted cancer prevention and control strategies.

1.2 Statement Of The Problem

The issue addressed in this study concerns inadequate knowledge and potentially unfavorable attitudes toward leukaemia among men in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Although cancer awareness campaigns have expanded globally and nationally, public discourse in Nigeria has largely emphasized more common cancers such as breast and prostate cancer, leaving leukaemia comparatively underrepresented in community level sensitization efforts (Talabi et al., 2021; Surakat et al., 2023). Consequently, adult men may have limited understanding of the disease’s etiology, symptomatology, and available treatment modalities. Evidence indicates that awareness of hematologic malignancies is generally lower than that of solid tumors, particularly in semi urban settings where health literacy levels vary (Olukanni et al., 2020; Phillips et al., 2025). Such gaps in knowledge may influence how men perceive their personal vulnerability and the seriousness of early symptoms associated with leukaemia.
In addition, misconceptions and sociocultural attitudes may shape health related responses among men. Some individuals may underestimate their susceptibility to leukaemia or interpret nonspecific symptoms such as persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, or unexplained weight loss as minor ailments or consequences of daily stress (Kayode & Awoyemi, 2021; Wahab et al., 2020). Negative attitudes toward cancer diagnoses, including fear, stigma, and fatalistic beliefs, can further affect willingness to seek medical evaluation promptly (Saheed & Ireti, 2020; Eniolorunda et al., 2021). Masculinity norms that valorize endurance and self reliance may also discourage open discussion of symptoms and delay professional consultation (Olarewaju et al., 2020). Such perceptions and attitudes have important implications for timely detection, treatment initiation, and overall health outcomes.
Despite the relevance of these concerns, empirical investigations focusing specifically on men’s knowledge and attitudes toward leukaemia in Ijebu-Ode remain scarce. Existing studies in Nigeria often address general cancer awareness or focus on other malignancies without disaggregating findings by cancer type or local context (Osikomaiya, 2021; Kareem et al., 2020). Available data provide limited insight into how men within this particular community conceptualize leukaemia, identify its risk factors, or perceive the effectiveness of medical treatment (Olubodun et al., 2024; Jaiyeola et al., 2025). The absence of localized and gender specific evidence constrains the design of tailored health education programs and community based awareness strategies that respond to the unique informational needs of men in Ijebu-Ode (Adam et al., 2025; B. et al., 2021).
Therefore, the central problem lies in insufficient context specific evidence regarding men’s knowledge and attitudes toward leukaemia in Ijebu-Ode. This limitation restricts effective planning and implementation of interventions aimed at strengthening cancer awareness, promoting early symptom recognition, and improving health seeking behavior among men. Generating empirical data in this area is essential to inform culturally appropriate communication strategies and to enhance public health efforts directed at reducing the burden of leukaemia within the community (Olubodun et al., 2025; Taiwo et al., 2021; Famoofo & Adeniyi, 2020).

1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to examine the assessment of men’s knowledge, and attitude towards leukaemia in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Specifically, the study seeks to; 
1. To assess the level of knowledge of leukaemia among men residing in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun.

2. To examine men’s knowledge of the signs and symptoms of leukaemia in the study area.

3. To evaluate the attitudes of men toward leukaemia prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment in Ijebu-Ode.

4. To determine the association between knowledge level and attitude toward leukaemia among men.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge of leukaemia among men residing in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun?

2. What is men’s knowledge of the signs and symptoms of leukaemia in the study area?

3. What are the attitudes of men toward leukaemia prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment in Ijebu-Ode?

What is the association between knowledge level and attitude toward leukaemia among men?
1.5 Significance of the Study
At the completion of this study, healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, laboratory scientists, and community health workers in Ijebu-Ode will benefit from the findings. The study will provide empirical evidence on the level of knowledge and prevailing attitudes of men toward leukaemia, thereby enabling health practitioners to tailor communication strategies and educational interventions more effectively. Insight into misconceptions, perceived susceptibility, and treatment beliefs will support the development of targeted counseling approaches that promote early symptom recognition and timely presentation at health facilities. This evidence can also enhance clinical outreach programs and community sensitization initiatives designed to improve cancer literacy among adult males.
Public health authorities and policymakers will equally benefit from the outcomes of this research. Data generated from the study will offer a context specific basis for designing cancer awareness campaigns and male focused health promotion programs within Ijebu-Ode and similar settings in Ogun State. Findings will assist in prioritizing resource allocation, strengthening community based education, and integrating leukaemia awareness into broader non communicable disease control strategies. Non governmental organizations and advocacy groups working in cancer prevention will also gain relevant information to guide program planning and evaluation.
Academic researchers and students in public health, nursing, and medical sciences will benefit from the study as it contributes to the body of empirical literature on cancer knowledge and attitudes in Nigeria. The research will serve as a reference for future investigations exploring behavioral determinants of health seeking among men. It may also stimulate comparative studies across different communities and demographic groups.
Men residing in Ijebu-Ode constitute a primary beneficiary group. Increased awareness resulting from dissemination of the findings can enhance their understanding of leukaemia, its symptoms, and associated risk factors. Improved knowledge and more positive attitudes toward early diagnosis and treatment may encourage proactive health behavior, promote timely consultation with healthcare providers, and ultimately support better health outcomes within the community.
1.6 Scope of the Study
The study is empirically focused on assessing the level of knowledge of leukaemia among men residing in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, with particular emphasis on their understanding of its signs, symptoms, prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment options. It examines men’s awareness of clinical manifestations such as persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, and abnormal bleeding, as well as their attitudes toward preventive practices and timely medical intervention. In addition, the study analyzes the association between knowledge levels and attitudes toward leukaemia in order to determine whether informed individuals demonstrate more positive health orientations. The research draws on primary data collected from adult male residents within selected communities in Ijebu-Ode. Geographically, the scope is limited to Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, thereby providing context specific findings relevant to local health education strategies and male focused cancer awareness interventions.