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Alharran AM, Aljuma RS, Aljasmi AS, Al-Mutairi MF, M Alenezi DF, Alenezi YY, Alajmi HN, Saad AR, Jaradat AA. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Colorectal Cancer's Prevention and Early Detection Among Older Adults in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e62323. [PMID: 38873393 PMCID: PMC11175023 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, colorectal cancer is one of the significant public health concerns that imposes a substantial risk of morbidity and mortality. Early detection and management of colorectal cancer are necessary to improve the patient's prognosis and outcomes. Hence, several guidelines recommend screening patients at risk of colorectal cancer periodically. Patients' knowledge and attitudes toward screening measures influence their compliance with the guidelines. This study aimed to determine knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to prevention and early detection among older adults in Kuwait. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among Kuwaiti adults aged between 45 and 75 years attending the outpatient department in Kuwait's seven major hospitals. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants. A self-administered questionnaire consisted of four parts: sociodemographic and baseline characteristics, knowledge of colorectal cancer screening, attitudes toward colorectal cancer screening, and practices toward colorectal cancer screening. RESULTS A total of 570 Kuwaiti patients were included, and half of them were males (n = 285). Most patients were aged between 45 and 50 years (53.8%), had a secondary school certificate (n = 357, 62.6%), and were unmarried (n = 419, 73.5%). Low levels of knowledge (<50%) and practices (<30%) toward colorectal cancer screening were seen among the participants. Statistically significant correlations were found between patients' knowledge about colorectal cancer screening and their attitudes (r = 0.317, P < 0.001) and practices (r = 0.330, P < 0.001). In addition, a moderately significant association was found between patients' attitudes and practices toward colorectal cancer screening. CONCLUSION The study found that despite positive attitudes, Kuwaiti patients have low levels of knowledge and practice regarding colorectal cancer screening. This suggests a need for targeted, culturally sensitive educational programs and national campaigns to improve screening rates and address knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah M Alharran
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, College of Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Retaj S Aljuma
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Aminah S Aljasmi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | | | - Danah F M Alenezi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Yaqoub Y Alenezi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, College of Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Hajar N Alajmi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Abdulbadih R Saad
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
| | - Ahmed A Jaradat
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR
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Mohammad BF, Andsoy II. Health behaviors, knowledge, screening, and attitudes toward colorectal cancer among Iraqi adults. Public Health Nurs 2024; 41:514-524. [PMID: 38475879 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13302] [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] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the Iraqi population's health behaviors, knowledge, screening, attitudes toward colorectal cancer (CRC), and possible predictors that may affect their knowledge level. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SAMPLE One thousand three hundred sixty-one Iraqi adults from Sulaymaniyah/Iraq. MEASUREMENTS The odds ratio (OR) was used to find the association between knowledge of CRC and associated factors. RESULTS Among participants, 6.1% had a colonoscopy, 4.0% had a sigmoidoscopy, and 60.8% heard CRC screening. Participants had low knowledge level of CRC risk factors (5.52 ± 1.39), and symptoms (3.73 ± 1.16) and had a medium knowledge of screening (4.35 ± 1.02). Respondents who retired (OR = 1.30; p = .00) and who had graduated from university (OR = 0.86; p = .01) had a high knowledge of CRC, while those who were aged 70 and above (OR = -1.08; p = .00) had a low knowledge of CRC. Furthermore, it was found that Iraqi adults who answered "no idea" to questions related to attitude and who answered incorrectly questions related to risk factors were likely to have low knowledge (p = .00). CONCLUSIONS We found a lack of knowledge, screening, and misconceptions about CRC and screening among Iraqi adults. Thus, health training and screening programs should target Iraqi populations.
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Olyani S, Ebrahimipour H, Mahdizadeh Taraghdari M, Jamali J, Peyman N. Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Related Factors Among Adults Attending Primary Healthcare in North-Eastern of Iran: A Cross-sectional Study. J Res Health Sci 2023; 23:e00589. [PMID: 38315904 PMCID: PMC10660502 DOI: 10.34172/jrhs.2023.124] [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] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer in Iran. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness regarding CRC warning signs, risk factors, screening program, and related factors among adults in North-Eastern Iran. Study Design: A cross-sectional study. METHODS The multi-stage sampling method was used to survey 2614 participants attending primary healthcare centers in Mashhad, Iran. The data collection tools were the demographics section and Bowel/ CRC Awareness Measure (Bowel/Colorectal CAM). The data were analyzed by SPSS, version 25. The significance level of the data analysis was less than 0.05. RESULTS Mean awareness for CRC warning signs and CRC risk factors were 2.85±2.13 and 3.63±1.85, respectively. Most participants (97.2%) had no awareness of the CRC screening program. There was a significant association between marital status, education, job, income, and family history of CRC with awareness of warning signs (P<0.001); moreover, there was a significant association between age, education, job, income, and family history of CRC with awareness of risk factors (P<0.001). The results of logistic regression indicated that there was a significant association between age (P=0.022, OR=1.794, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.087, 2.962), gender (P=0.005, OR=0.488, 95% CI: 0.296, 0.803) and warning sign awareness (P<0.001, OR=1.278, 95% CI: 1.124, 1.454) with awareness of the CRC screening program. CONCLUSION In this study, most of the participants had low awareness of CRC. More aimed educational interventions are needed to promote Iranian adults' awareness of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Olyani
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Ebrahimipour
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Health Economic and Management Sciences, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrsadat Mahdizadeh Taraghdari
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Jamshid Jamali
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nooshin Peyman
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Furtak-Niczyporuk M, Zardzewiały W, Balicki D, Bernacki R, Jaworska G, Kozłowska M, Drop B. Colorectal Cancer-The Worst Enemy Is the One We Do Not Know. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1866. [PMID: 36767228 PMCID: PMC9914921 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031866] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in humans. It is the third most frequently diagnosed malignant neoplasm and is the second highest cause of cancer mortality in the world. Every year, more and more people die of colorectal cancer because the diagnosis is conducted too late. This shows how important a role screening tests and the awareness of the population about the symptoms play in this aspect. This article aimed to determine the knowledge of the Polish population about morbidity, symptoms, prevention, and subjective feelings about the level of availability of knowledge about colorectal cancer. METHODS In 2020, a study was conducted using an online questionnaire assessing the awareness of the Polish population about colorectal cancer. A self-authored questionnaire including questions about socio-demographic characteristics, and 18 questions related to substantive issues, was used. A research group was selected (n = 633). The substantive part of the questionnaire included questions examining the respondents' knowledge about morbidity, symptoms, prevention, and subjective feelings about the level of availability of knowledge about colorectal cancer. RESULTS The respondents' awareness level was influenced by demographic factors, such as gender: (p < 0.05) and age (p < 0.05) and social factors, such as: level of education (p < 0.05) or professional situation (p < 0.05). Compared to thematic articles from other countries, the research group was divided into smaller subgroups due to the abovementioned factors, due to which it was possible to stratify and analyze the significance of differences between them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Witold Zardzewiały
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Public Health, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki Street 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dawid Balicki
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Public Health, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki Street 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Radosław Bernacki
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Public Health, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki Street 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Gabriela Jaworska
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Public Health, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki Street 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Kozłowska
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Public Health, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki Street 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Drop
- Department of Medical Informatics and Statistics with E-Learning Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
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Elshami M, Ayyad M, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Ahmed Naji S, Mohamad BM, Sudki Isleem W, Shurrab A, Yaghi B, Qabaja YA, Hmdan FK, Fuad Dwikat M, Raed Sweity R, Jneed RT, Assaf KA, Albandak ME, Madhat Hmaid M, Awwad II, Khalil Alhabil B, Alarda MN, Saleh Alsattari A, Aboyousef MS, Aljbour OA, AlSharif R, Teddy Giacaman C, Alnaga AY, Nemer RMA, Almadhoun NM, Mahmoud Skaik S, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of colorectal cancer signs and symptoms: a national cross-sectional study from Palestine. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:866. [PMID: 35501803 PMCID: PMC9063349 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13285-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In low-resource settings, the awareness level of colorectal cancer (CRC) signs and symptoms plays a crucial role in early detection and treatment. This study examined the public awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms in Palestine and investigated the factors associated with good awareness. METHODS This was a national cross-sectional study conducted at hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 governorates across Palestine between July 2019 and March 2020. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated bowel cancer awareness measure (BoCAM) was utilized to assess the awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms. For each correctly identified CRC sign/symptom, one point was given. The total score (ranging from 0 to 12) was calculated and categorized into three categories based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0 to 4), fair (5 to 8), and good awareness (9 to 12). RESULTS Of 5254 approached, 4877 participants completed the questionnaire (response rate = 92.3%). A total of 4623 questionnaires were included in the analysis; 1923 were from the Gaza Strip and 2700 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ). Participants from the Gaza Strip were younger, gained lower monthly income, and had less chronic diseases than participants in the WBJ. The most frequently identified CRC sign/symptom was 'lump in the abdomen' while the least was 'pain in the back passage'. Only 1849 participants (40.0%, 95% CI: 39.0%-41.0%) had a good awareness level of CRC signs/symptoms. Participants living in the WBJ were more likely to have good awareness than participants living in the Gaza Strip (42.2% vs. 37.0%; p = 0.002). Knowing someone with cancer (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.21-1.55; p < 0.001) and visiting hospitals (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.25-1.70; p < 0.001) were both associated with higher likelihood of having good awareness. However, male gender (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.68-0.94; p = 0.006) and following a vegetarian diet (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48-0.73; p < 0.001) were both associated with lower likelihood of having good awareness. CONCLUSION Less than half of the study participants had a good awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms. Future education interventions are needed to improve public awareness of CRC in Palestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Mohammed Ayyad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bashar Yaghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Khayria Ali Assaf
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Iyas Imad Awwad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rinad AlSharif
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Sondos Mahmoud Skaik
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds Abu Dis University Al-Azhar Branch of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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Al-Jawaldeh A, Abbass MMS. Unhealthy Dietary Habits and Obesity: The Major Risk Factors Beyond Non-Communicable Diseases in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Front Nutr 2022; 9:817808. [PMID: 35369054 PMCID: PMC8970016 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.817808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There are 22 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) expanding from Morocco in the west to Pakistan and Afghanistan in the east, containing a population of 725,721 million in 2020. In the previous 30 years, the illness burden in the EMR has transmitted from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In 2019, cardiovascular mortality in the EMR was mostly attributed to ischemic heart disease, the first reason for mortality in 19 countries in the region. Stroke was the second reason for death in nine countries followed by diabetes, which was ranked as the second reason for death in two countries. The prominent nutrition-related NCDs risk factors in EMR include obesity, hypertension, high fasting plasma glucose, and upregulated unhealthy diet consumption. Most of the EMR population are unaware of their NCDs risk factor status. These risk factors, even if treated, are often poorly controlled, therefore, inhibiting their existence by changing the lifestyle to proper dietary habits and sufficient physical activity is mandatory. In this review, the epidemiology and nutrition-related risk factors of NCDs in the EMR will be discussed and illustrated, aiming to scale up action and support decision-makers in implementing cost effective strategies to address obesity and NCDs prevention and management in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- World Health Organization (WHO), Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. S. Abbass
- World Health Organization (WHO), Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), Cairo, Egypt
- Oral Biology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Marwa M. S. Abbass
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Hamza A, Argaw Z, Gela D. Awareness of Colorectal Cancer and Associated Factors Among Adult Patients in Jimma, South-West Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Cancer Control 2021; 28:10732748211033550. [PMID: 34342519 PMCID: PMC8351030 DOI: 10.1177/10732748211033550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the first commonest diagnosed cancer in men and the fourth commonest in women in Ethiopia. Awareness of CRC and associated factors is crucial in the prevention of CRC. However, there have not been studies about the awareness of CRC and associated factors among adult patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the awareness of CRC and associated factors among adult patients in Jimma, South-West Ethiopia, 2020. Methods This institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 422 adult patients. The study respondents were recruited by a systematic random sampling method. The Cancer Awareness Measure questions were used to measure awareness of CRC of adult patients. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results More than half (57.6%) of respondents had low-level awareness of CRC. Respondents who were females (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.26, 2.75), who are residing in urban areas (AOR = .45; 95% CI: .30, .67), who had a monthly income of 3000 Ethiopian Birr and above (AOR = 4.72; 95% CI: 3.11, 7.15), who heard about CRC (AOR = 4.48; 95% CI: 2.90, 6.93), who get information through social media about CRC (AOR = 2.51; 95% CI: 1.18, 5.37), and who had a family history of CRC (AOR = 3.27; 95% CI: 1.45, 7.36) had a high level of awareness of CRC, while those who cannot read and write (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.49, 5.37) and learn elementary school (AOR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.15, 3.93) had a low level of awareness of CRC. Conclusion This study indicated that awareness of CRC of adult patients was inadequate. Adult patients’ gender, residency, level of education, monthly income, heard about CRC, sources of information about CRC, and a family history of CRC were found to be independent predictors of the awareness of CRC. Therefore, there is a need for health education and awareness campaigns for promoting awareness of CRC of adult patients, and the government should develop policy on CRC prevention and screening program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmenan Hamza
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Health, 107839Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Zeleke Argaw
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Science, 37602Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Debela Gela
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Science, 37602Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Yue T, Chen S, Zhu J, Guo S, Huang Z, Wang P, Zuo S, Liu Y. The aging-related risk signature in colorectal cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:7330-7349. [PMID: 33658390 PMCID: PMC7993742 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. The opening of the TCGA and GEO databases has promoted the progress of CRC prognostic assessment, while the aging-related risk signature has never been mentioned. Methods: R software packages, GSEA software, Venn diagram, Metascape, STRING, Cytoscape, cBioPortal, TIMER and GeneMANIA website were used in this study. Results: Aging-related gene sets, GO_AGING, GO_CELL_AGING and GO_CELLULAR_SENESCENCE, were activated significantly in CRC tissues. We constructed an aging-related risk signature using LASSO COX regression in training group TCGA and validated in testing group GSE39582. The risk score was significantly associated with the overall survival of CRC patients, whose stability was clarified by stratified survival analysis and accuracy was demonstrated using the ROC curve. The risk score was significantly increased in the advanced stage, T3-4, N1-3 and M1 and positively correlated with the richness of immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. We further investigated the molecular characteristics of 15 hub genes at the DNA and protein levels and performed GSEA between high- and low-risk groups. Conclusions: The aging-related signature is a reliable prognostic analysis model and can predict the severity and immune cell infiltration of CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taohua Yue
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanwen Chen
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Shihao Guo
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihao Huang
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengyuan Wang
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Zuo
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
| | - Yucun Liu
- Division of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100034, People's Republic of China
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Elshami M, Alfaqawi M, Abdalghafoor T, Nemer AA, Ghuneim M, Lubbad H, Almahallawi B, Samaan M, Alwali A, Alborno A, Al-Kafarna D, Salah A, Shihada K, Amona MA, Al-Najjar A, Abu Subha R, Alhelu B, Abujayyab I, Albarqouni L, Bottcher B. Public Awareness and Barriers to Seeking Medical Advice for Colorectal Cancer in the Gaza Strip: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Glob Oncol 2020; 5:JGO1800252. [PMID: 31050920 PMCID: PMC6550031 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.18.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Raising awareness of colorectal cancer (CRC) symptoms for early recognition, reduction of modifiable risk factors, and removing barriers to seeking medical help could lower its mortality. This study aimed to assess the level of public awareness of CRC in the Gaza Strip. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted at three hospitals and 10 high schools between September and October 2017. The Arabic version of the validated Bowel Cancer Awareness Measure (BoCAM) questionnaire was used to evaluate awareness of CRC symptoms and risk factors, and barriers to seeking medical help. Adults (age ≥ 18 years) in three major hospitals and adolescents (ages 15 to 17 years) in 10 schools were recruited for face-to-face interviews to complete the BoCAM. RESULTS Of 3,172 potential participants, 3,080 completed the BoCAM (response rate, 97.1%). Among these, 1,578 (51.2%) were adults and 1,614 (52.4%) were females. Persistent abdominal pain was the most commonly recognized CRC symptom (n = 1,899; 61.7%), whereas anorectal pain was the least common (n = 1,056; 34.3%). In total, 2,177 (70.7%) were not confident in recognizing CRC symptoms or signs. Having a bowel disease was the most frequently recognized CRC risk factor (n = 1,456; 47.3%) and diabetes the least recognized (n = 591; 19.2%). The overall mean scores ± standard deviations for recalling and recognizing CRC symptoms were 1.2 ± 1.3 and 4.3 ± 2.3, respectively (out of 9 points). The overall mean scores ± standard deviations for recalling and recognizing CRC risk factors were 0.7 ± 0.8 and 8.0 ± 3.1, respectively (out of 16 points). Emotional barriers were the most commonly reported barriers to seeking medical help, with feeling worried about what a doctor might find as the most common barrier (n = 1,522; 49.4%). CONCLUSION Public awareness of CRC is suboptimal in Gaza. Improving CRC awareness with educational interventions is needed, including in local schools.
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Al-Dahshan A, Chehab M, Bala M, Omer M, AlMohamed O, Al-Kubaisi N, Selim N. Colorectal cancer awareness and its predictors among adults aged 50-74 years attending primary healthcare in the State of Qatar: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035651. [PMID: 32641359 PMCID: PMC7342467 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to assess the awareness of colorectal cancer (CRC) symptoms and risk factors among the at-risk population visiting the primary healthcare (PHC) centres in Qatar. The secondary objective was to assess the differences in awareness among population subgroups. DESIGN A cross-sectional study design was employed. SETTING The study was conducted across six PHC centres in Qatar. PARTICIPANTS Patients, or their accompanying people, aged 50-74 years and Arabic or English speakers, were recruited from the main waiting areas of the selected PHC centres. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Participants were interviewed using the validated Bowel/Colorectal Cancer Awareness Measure questionnaire. A non-probability convenient sampling technique was applied to recruit participants. Descriptive and analytic statistics were used when appropriate. A multivariate linear regression model was constructed to identify the independent predictors of CRC awareness. RESULTS The study includes 448 participants (response rate=87%). The mean age of the participants was 58.48 years (SD ±6.37). The mean awareness score among the participants was 3.63/9 (SD ±2.7) for CRC symptoms and 5.43/11 (SD ±3.3) for CRC risk factors. The overall mean awareness score was 9.03/20 (SD ±5.5). Multivariate linear regression identified the female gender (2.52 (95% CI 1.15 to 3.88)), non-Qatari Arab (2.91 (95% CI 1.64 to 4.18)) or non-Arab nationalities (1.76 (95% CI 0.28 to 3.24)), and tertiary education (4.10 (95% CI 2.55 to 5.66)) as independent predictors of higher CRC awareness. CONCLUSION In general, the awareness of CRC symptoms and risk factors was low among the at-risk population in Qatar. Specifically, the regression analysis showed men, Qataris, and those with no formal education had low awareness of CRC symptoms and risk factors. Such results emphasise the importance of tailoring future educational campaigns that are relevant, specific and appealing to such cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Al-Dahshan
- Community Medicine, Medical Education Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamad Chehab
- Community Medicine, Medical Education Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Bala
- Community Medicine, Medical Education Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mieaad Omer
- Community Medicine, Medical Education Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omayma AlMohamed
- Operations Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noora Al-Kubaisi
- Clinical Affairs Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nagah Selim
- Department of Workforce Training, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Mint Sidi Deoula M, El Kinany K, Hatime Z, Boudouaya HA, El Rhazi K. Meat and colorectal cancer in Middle Eastern and North African countries: update of literature review. Public Health Rev 2020; 41:7. [PMID: 32426173 PMCID: PMC7216610 DOI: 10.1186/s40985-020-00127-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This review discusses the findings from epidemiological studies that have examined the possible role of meat and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries. Methods We conducted a literature search in the PubMed, Clinical Trials, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane databases for observational studies that investigated the association between meat and CRC risk in adults from the MENA region. Results Eleven studies were included in this review. For red meat overall, significant associations were found. Regarding beef meat intake, the study included found controversial results with OR = 0.18 (95% CI 0.03–0.09). A positive association was observed between chicken and CRC risk, at OR = 2.52 (95% CI 1.33–4.77) to OR = 4.00 (95% CI 1.53–10.41) to OR = 15.32 (95% CI 3.28–71.45). A significant association was observed between processed meat intake and CRC risk, OR = 9.08 (95% CI 1.02–80.58). Conclusion This is the first literature review which illustrated the association between meat consumption and CRC risk in MENA region. We concluded that these studies included in this review have been controversial and not sufficient to establish a clear relationship between CRC and meat consumption in the MENA region. Further studies are necessary to be carried out in this region, with a larger sample size and submit to rigorous criteria. This review will help researchers to improve the quality of future studies about the association between CRC and nutritional diet in general and meat in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meimouna Mint Sidi Deoula
- 1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and pharmacy of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco.,2Laboratory of Sciences Medical and Translational Research, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Khaoula El Kinany
- 1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and pharmacy of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Zineb Hatime
- 1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and pharmacy of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Hanae Abir Boudouaya
- 1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and pharmacy of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Karima El Rhazi
- 1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and pharmacy of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
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Jiang S, Good D, Wei MQ. Vaccinations for Colorectal Cancer: Progress, Strategies, and Novel Adjuvants. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20143403. [PMID: 31373300 PMCID: PMC6678766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cancer is a leading cause of death, significant breakthroughs have been made in its treatment in recent years. In particular, increasingly effective cancer vaccines are being developed, including some for colorectal cancer. There are also currently a variety of compounds that can act as adjuvants, such as signalling molecules called cytokines. Other adjuvants target and inhibit the specific mechanisms by which cancers evade the immune system. One of them is a galectin inhibitor, which targets galectins—proteins produced by cancer cells that can cause the death of immune cells. Likewise, immune checkpoint inhibitors affect immune checkpoints—natural host proteins that usually control inflammation but can be exploited by cancers to weaken the body’s defences. Equally, regulatory T cells may contribute to the progression of cancer by inhibiting the functions of other T cells. The main advantages of cancer vaccines include their low toxicity and their ability to strengthen the immune system. Nevertheless, significant limitations include their slow effects and their inability to treat cancer at times due to immunosuppression. Ultimately, ongoing trials provide hope for the development of more effective methods of immunotherapeutic inoculation that can target a greater variety of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Jiang
- School of Medical Science and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Gold Coast campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - David Good
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Banyo, QLD 4014, Australia
| | - Ming Q Wei
- School of Medical Science and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Gold Coast campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia.
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