Adaptation and validation of the cancer awareness measure tool for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Hungary

Introduction Cancer awareness is vital for early detection and prevention; however, individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) often face challenges in accessing health information. The Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM) has not been tailored for this population. This study aimed to adapt and validate the CAM for individuals with ID in Hungary and to assess their cancer literacy. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 232 adults with mild and moderate ID living in community and residential settings. The CAM was simplified for cognitive accessibility, translated into Hungarian, and reviewed by the experts. The psychometric evaluation included internal consistency (Cronbach’s α ), content validity (I-CVI and S-CVI/Ave), and face validity through pilot testing. The associations between cancer knowledge, barriers, and demographic variables were analyzed using independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA. Results The adapted CAM showed satisfactory reliability across subscales (Warning Signs: α = 0.842; Risk Factors: α = 0.785; Prevention: α = 0.714; Barriers: α = 0.842) and excellent content validity (S-CVI/Ave = 0.96). Participants’ mean scores were 5.47/9 for Warning Signs, 36.41/55 for Risk Factors, 3.79/7 for Prevention, and 27.88/33 for Barriers to Seeking Help. Individuals living with family scored higher in warning sign knowledge ( p = 0.022), while care home residents had higher barrier scores ( p = 0.004). Those with a family history of cancer had higher warning sign ( p = 0.002) and Prevention Knowledge ( p = 0.047). Screening participation was associated with better warning sign knowledge ( p = 0.02). Age ≥65 years, vocational education, and full-time employment were associated with higher knowledge scores. Sex differences were not observed. Conclusion The Adapted CAM is a reliable and valid tool for assessing cancer awareness among individuals with ID in Hungary. The findings highlight demographic and contextual disparities, emphasizing the need for tailored, inclusive educational interventions and caregiver support.