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Jarab AS, Al-Qerem W, Almomani N, Abu Heshmeh S, Mukattash TL, Al Hamarneh YN. Colorectal cancer screening among the public: knowledge, attitudes, and the perceived barriers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:2578-2592. [PMID: 37730203 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2260320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC)1 screening tests help in early detection of CRC and improve disease prognosis. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and barriers to CRC screening and the associated factors among the general population in Jordan. A validated self-administered online survey was distributed on 1542 individuals in Jordan. The participants (n = 1542) reported several barriers and demonstrated insufficient knowledge but positive attitude towards CRC screening. Older age (OR = 1.021, 95% CI = 1.010-1.032, P < 0.001), working in medical field (OR = 3.198, 95% CI = 2.499-4.092, P < 0.001), family history of cancer (OR = 1.248, 95% CI = 1.002-1.555, P < 0.05), and knowing someone with CRC (OR = 1.601, 95% CI = 1.186-2.161, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with higher knowledge. Personal history of CRC (OR = 3.157, 95% CI = 1.188-8.387, P < 0.05), and high knowledge of CRC (OR = 2.795, 95% CI = 2.242-3.484, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with the positive attitude. Future healthcare programs should devise effective techniques to improve public understanding and perception of CRC screening and overcome the identified barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anan S Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- College of Pharmacy, AL Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Walid Al-Qerem
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Nadeen Almomani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Shrouq Abu Heshmeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Yazid N Al Hamarneh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Alsakkaf GEA, Boşnak AS, Birand N. Assessment of pharmacy students' knowledge about breast cancer and colon cancer in Northern Cyprus universities. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2024; 30:710-720. [PMID: 37357613 DOI: 10.1177/10781552231184588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colon and breast cancer are the most common types of cancer in cancer patients worldwide. Therefore, health students, especially pharmacy students, should be well-educated about colon and breast cancer. Adequate education and knowledge provide significant benefits from early diagnosis to treatment. METHODOLOGY This study was conducted as a cross-sectional study for 3 months between 1 November 2022, and 31 January 2023, in Northern Cyprus. The aim of this study was to assess pharmacy students' knowledge of breast cancer and colon cancer in North Cyprus Universities. RESULT A total of 494 pharmacy students participated in this study. Twenty-three incompletely filled questionnaires were excluded from the study. Regarding Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students' knowledge of colon cancer, 298 out of 494 had good knowledge and 196 out of 494 had poor knowledge. Regarding Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students' knowledge of breast cancer, 317 out of 494 had good knowledge and 177 out of 494 had poor knowledge. The total score of knowledge of Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students about breast cancer was 10 ± 3.43 and 11.40 ± 3.67, respectively. The total score of knowledge of Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students about colon cancer was 7.54 ± 3.67 and 9.19 ± 4.08, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the study indicate that most of the pharmacy students have good knowledge about the risk factors and symptoms of breast and colon cancer, but are not at the ideal knowledge level expected in the fight against cancer after graduation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamal E Ahmed Alsakkaf
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Ahmet S Boşnak
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Nevzat Birand
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, North Cyprus, Turkey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, North Cyprus, Turkey
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Khraiwesh H, Abdelrahim DN, Mahmoud IF, Faris M. Knowledge, Awareness, and Practices toward Colorectal Cancer and Its Dietary and Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors among Jordanian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Cancer Epidemiol 2024; 2024:4503448. [PMID: 38405266 PMCID: PMC10883744 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4503448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is rising, and it is a leading cause of mortality, with greater death rates pronounced in developing countries, including Jordan. Understanding knowledge and awareness of etiologic factors, unhealthy lifestyles, and dietary patterns is crucial for combating ailments. Hence, this study is aimed at investigating the level of knowledge and awareness of CRC-related risk factors, practices, and possible associations of studied variables among young Jordanians. Methodology. A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted using an online self-reported assessment of anthropometrics, knowledge, awareness, and dietary and lifestyle practices toward CRC and its related risk factors. Results A study of 795 Jordanian university students found that 93.8% were Jordanians, 73.0% were female, aged 18-24, and single. Most participants were from medical and science schools (69.4%). The vast majority (about 84%) were found to have good knowledge and awareness of CRC and its risk factors, but this was not reflected in their dietary practices. There are significant differences in physical activity, smoking, vegetable consumption, and serving sizes of red meat and processed meats between the sexes. Academic study specialties significantly impact knowledge and awareness. Conclusion The study reveals that while young Jordanian university students have good knowledge and awareness about CRC and its risk factors, these levels are not reflected in their dietary behaviors and food choices for CRC prevention, highlighting the need for national programs to improve these practices, particularly in the younger population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husam Khraiwesh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Processing, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Al-Balqa' Applied University, Salt, Jordan
| | - Dana N. Abdelrahim
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Iman F. Mahmoud
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - MoezAlIslam Faris
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences/Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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Buhl C, Olsen NL, Nørgaard LS, Thomsen LA, Jacobsen R. Community Pharmacy Staff's Knowledge, Educational Needs, and Barriers Related to Counseling Cancer Patients and Cancer Survivors in Denmark. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2287. [PMID: 36767653 PMCID: PMC9916331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to determine Danish community pharmacy staff's knowledge, educational needs, and barriers when communicating with cancer patients/survivors. Furthermore, the study investigated whether pharmacy staff was interested in participating in education about cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among community pharmacy staff (pharmacists and pharmaconomists) in Denmark. Descriptive and bivariate (t-test and chi-square) statistics were used to analyze the data. RESULTS In total, 134 staff members responded to the questionnaire. Their self-reported knowledge of cancer-related topics was between 'very little knowledge' and 'some knowledge'. The most well-known topics concerned risk factors for cancer and side effects from cancer treatments. The importance of learning more about the same topics was rated between 'important' and 'very important'. The largest barriers identified in counseling cancer patients/survivors were a lack of knowledge about cancer, a focus on healthcare problems other than cancer, and a traditional view of community pharmacies as a place to pick up medication. Pharmacy staff expressed interest in participating in educational programs about cancer treatment (91.0%), communication with cancer patients (88.1%), and late effects of cancer (93.3%). CONCLUSION Community pharmacy staff show interest in participating in education regarding cancer, but need more knowledge to properly counsel cancer patients and survivors at the community pharmacies. This important barrier should be addressed in future educational programs for community pharmacy staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Buhl
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nadia Lund Olsen
- Science to Society, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Ramune Jacobsen
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Alqudah MAY, Al-Samman R, Matalgah O, Abu Farhah R. Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: Self-Reported Knowledge and Attitude of Physicians in Jordan. INQUIRY: THE JOURNAL OF HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION, AND FINANCING 2022; 59:469580221095822. [PMID: 35469510 PMCID: PMC9052823 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221095822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) screening aims to detect PC in early stages, amenable to
curative treatment and reduction in disease morbidity and mortality. However, PC
screening may be associated with overdiagnosis and complications of unnecessary
treatment for indolent disease. Therefore, careful patient selection for PC
screening is critical to avoid overestimation and missed diagnosis. The aim of
this study was to assess physicians’ knowledge and attitude towards early
detection of PC in Jordan and whether their knowledge is an important predictor
of their attitude. An electronic, self-reported questionnaire was used to
collect data on demographics, knowledge, and attitude of physicians regarding
early detection of PC. The participants’ responses were analyzed using
descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. Around 296 physicians
agreed to participate in this study. Most respondents were males (75.7%),
residents (34%), practiced medicine more than 15 years (29%) and graduated
(81.4%) from local universities. Surprisingly, only 28.4% recognized PC as a
non-self-detected disease and less than one-half (48.6%) were aware that PC
screening tests are not enough to exclude a diagnosis of PC. The median
knowledge Percent of Maximum Possible (POMP) score was 59%. Around two-thirds of
participants showed a positive attitude towards early detection of PC (median
attitude POMP score was 66%). Higher attitude scores were significantly
associated with younger age, those working in private hospitals, and those
having higher knowledge POMP score (P < .05). This study
highlighted that most physicians demonstrated a positive attitude towards PC
screening but with moderate level of knowledge that is considered an important
predictor of their attitude towards PC early detection. Thus, improving
knowledge and awareness of physicians should be considered as a strategy to
improve their attitude towards prostate screening practices and informing men of
the importance of regular screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. Y. Alqudah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Raneem Al-Samman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Obada Matalgah
- Department of Anesthesia and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rana Abu Farhah
- Department of Therapeutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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