Colon Cancer among Older Saudis: Awareness of Risk Factors and Early Signs, and Perceived Barriers to Screening

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Among the General Population in Northern Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

One of the most prevalent types of cancer is colorectal cancer (CRC). Increased consumption of foods derived from animals, smoking, and family history are all regarded as CRC risk factors. A significant obstacle to the use of screening programs for CRC is community unawareness.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the awareness of symptoms, signs, and screening modalities of CRC among the adult population in Arar City, Northern Saudi Arabia.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among males and females living in Arar City who were 18 years of age or older.

RESULTS

More than half (56.6%; 233) of the participants correctly identified that the colon is the large intestine, 61.7% (254) identified that the rectum is the distal part of it, and nearly a fifth stated that the function of the colon is water reabsorption. The majority stated abdominal pain (78.2%; 322) and change in bowel habits (76%; 313) are symptoms of CRC, but less than 60% (240) reported nausea and vomiting. Concerning participants' risk factor awareness of CRC, smoking is most frequently cited, followed by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatty food, family history, and colon polyps.

CONCLUSION

Although not perfect, the current analysis demonstrates that there is accepted public awareness about CRC. We recommend the adoption of education initiatives via mass media and at regular religious events like Jumma to increase community awareness and knowledge.

Insights into Colorectal Cancer Screening Awareness: A Study in the Community of Taif City

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly prevalent among Saudi males and females. Understanding its symptoms, risk factors, and screening is vital. This study aims to gauge CRC awareness in Taif City, Saudi Arabia, based on demographics. An observational study in Taif City surveyed awareness on colorectal screening, gathering data from March-April 2023 via a questionnaire covering demographics, screening knowledge, symptoms, and risk factors. Involving 551 participants, most were 19-40 years old (59.2%), female (65.9%), and had a bachelor's degree (71.3%). Notably, 49.2% hadn't visited a family doctor. Awareness on CRC screening was low. 37.7% knew about fecal occult blood tests, 32.7% about sigmoidoscopy, and 34.8% about colonoscopy. Only 27.6% knew the recommended screening age, and 2.4% the frequency. Participants sought information mainly online (45.7%) or from friends (24.1%). Recognized risk factors included family history (57.0%), blood in stool (58.8%), and abdominal pain (47.9%). The study highlights inadequate awareness about CRC screening in Taif. It underscores the necessity for targeted education campaigns, collaboration with healthcare professionals, and diverse information sources to improve understanding among the population.

Colorectal cancer literacy and related factors in northeast of Iran: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a health challenge and the second most common cancer worldwide. Increasing colorectal cancer literacy (CRCL) is one of the most effective factors in CRC prevention.

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine and evaluate CRCL and its related factors in Torbat Heydarieh, northeastern Iran.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study was a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2021 in Torbat Heydarieh, a city in northeastern Iran, on 200 clients presenting to a comprehensive health service centers. In addition to collecting sociodemographic characteristics, participants were administered the Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire and the Colorectal Cancer Literacy Questionnaire (CRCLQ). Data were analyzed with SPSS software version 25 using independent samples t-tests, one-way analysis, chi-square, and Pearson correlation coefficients. The statistical significance level was set at p < .05. The results showed that the mean age of the participants was 51.12 ± 8.45 years. The majority of participants (84%) stated that their friends and relatives had no history of CRC. Pearson correlation coefficient results showed a significant correlation between knowledge and attitude toward CRC (r = .15, p = .041). A significant correlation was also found between knowledge and CRCL (r = .4, p ≤ .001).

CONCLUSION

We found low CRCL among clients of comprehensive health service centers. More targeted educational interventions are needed to promote CRCL among Iranian adults.

An Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of Colorectal Cancer among Community Pharmacists in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia

Background: The global burden of colorectal cancer remains a major public health issue and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, it continues to be a health concern. Any delays in diagnosis for any reason may contribute to advanced complications; therefore, pharmacists' knowledge and awareness of colorectal cancer are crucial for the welfare of society. Studies of colon cancer-related knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among community pharmacists have not previously been conducted in the Al-Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. In the present study, therefore, we sought to investigate the KAP on colon cancer among pharmacists in Al-Qassim. Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study. A sample of 150 community pharmacists was recruited using a convenience sampling method. A self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate levels of knowledge and practice. Results: Out of a total of 150 pharmacists, the majority of respondents (60.7%) possessed an adequate level of knowledge. About 50% of participants had heard of the early screening test, and 68.7% knew that colonoscopy is necessary in such scenarios. On the basis of their attitudes, 41.3% of study participants were aware of colon cancer symptoms and risk factors. In practice, however, the majority of pharmacists (81%) did not perform early cancer screenings, while 19% did screen when advised to do so by a physician. Conclusions: Our results indicate that pharmacists in Qassim have an adequate level of knowledge of colon cancer in terms of awareness, assessment, and screening. Since community pharmacists are among the most reliable members of the medical community, a greater awareness of colon cancer among pharmacists may improve public knowledge of the disease.

Screening Perspectives: The Role of Colorectal Cancer Awareness in Shaping Attitudes Toward Colonoscopy in Palestine

PURPOSE

To assess colorectal cancer (CRC) awareness and its influence on attitudes toward colonoscopy in Palestine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Convenience sampling was used to recruit Palestinian adults from hospitals, primary health care centers, and public spaces across 11 governorates. To evaluate the awareness of CRC signs/symptoms, risk factors, and mythical causes, the Bowel Cancer Awareness Measure and Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale were used after translation into Arabic. For each correctly recognized item, one point was given. The total awareness score of each domain was calculated and categorized into tertiles; the top tertile was considered high awareness, and the other two tertiles were considered low awareness.

RESULTS

A total of 4,623 questionnaires were included. Only 1,849 participants (40.0%) exhibited high awareness of CRC signs/symptoms. High awareness of CRC symptoms was associated with higher likelihood of showing positive attitudes toward colonoscopy (odds ratio [OR], 1.21 [95% CI, 1.07 to 1.37]). A total of 1,840 participants (38.9%) demonstrated high awareness of CRC risk factors. Participants with high awareness of CRC risk factors were more likely to display positive attitudes toward colonoscopy (OR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.07 to 1.37]). Only 219 participants (4.7%) demonstrated high awareness of CRC causation myths. There was no association between awareness of CRC causation myths and positive attitudes toward colonoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Awareness of CRC was poor with less than half of the study participants demonstrating high awareness of CRC signs/symptoms and risk factors, and a minority (<5%) displaying high awareness of CRC causation myths. High awareness of CRC signs/symptoms and risk factors was associated with greater likelihood of demonstrating positive attitudes toward colonoscopy. Educational initiatives are needed to address knowledge gaps and dispel misconceptions surrounding CRC.

Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer in Egypt: a nationwide cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines advocate for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in adults who are at risk by using direct visualization methods such as colonoscopy. However, in Egypt, there is a paucity of data regarding the current practice of colonoscopy screening. Moreover, more information is needed about the knowledge and attitudes of potential participants regarding the procedure and possible barriers that can limit their participation.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study using an interview-based survey of patients aged 45 years or above who presented to outpatient clinics of nine university hospitals throughout Egypt. Participants were surveyed to assess their compliance with CRC colonoscopy screening guidelines, their knowledge of and attitude towards colonoscopy screening, and their perspective on potential barriers to colonoscopy screening.

RESULTS

A total of 1,453 participants responded to our survey in the nine study centers. Only a minority of participants (2.3%) were referred for CRC screening. Referral rates were higher among those who knew someone with a history of CRC (5.3% vs 1.5%, p < 0.001) or had a discussion with their physician about CRC (25.8% vs 0.7%, p < 0.001). Few responders (3.2%) had good knowledge regarding CRC screening. After introducing the concept of CRC screening to all participants, most patients (66.7%) showed a positive attitude towards having the procedure. Financial burden and fear of results were the two most frequently cited barriers to undergoing CRC screening (81.1%; and 60.1%, respecteively).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the positive attitude, there is insufficient knowledge about CRC screening among eligible participants in Egypt. This has probably contributed to low compliance with current CRC screening guidelines and needs to be addressed at the national level.

Knowledge and awareness about colorectal cancer and barriers to its screening among a sample of general public in Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCTION

The present study investigated knowledge, awareness, and barriers to colorectal cancer (CRC) screening from a sample of the general population in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2022 and January 2023 among a sample of the general population in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consisted of demographics, knowledge and awareness, and questions about CRC screening barriers.

RESULTS

A total of 1105 adults belonged to the general public [505 females (45.7%) and 600 males (54.3%)] recruited in this survey. The mean age of the respondents was 39.79±12.49. The internet was the primary source of CC information for most participants, 661(59.8%). Gender-wise comparison of general public responses regarding CRC knowledge and awareness and barriers to screening showed a mixed response. Analysis of participants' knowledge regarding CRC and its risk factors and warning signs showed that 356(32.2%) people believed that the best age for the CRC test is 41-50 years, and 285(25.8%) responded they don't know. Almost half of the participants, 539(48.8%), were not interested in attending awareness seminars about CRC, while 371(33.6%) were interested in attending awareness seminars about CRC. Only one-third of the respondents, 368(33.3%), knew of any tests or examinations used to detect CRC. Participants' perceptions about colonoscopy-related and FOBT-related barriers to CRC screening disclosed that these are time-consuming, expensive, painful, embarrassing, etc.

CONCLUSION

Insufficient information, poor awareness, and several assumed barriers to CRC screening were found among study participants. There is a need to close knowledge gaps and offer them comprehensive information regarding CRC, as well as the availability and benefits of screening. In this aspect, social media can be extremely beneficial.

Awareness of the Adult Population Toward Colorectal Cancer in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia

Introduction Colon and rectal cancer are usually grouped together as they share similar features. They are the third most common cancer in the world and the second most common cancer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Awareness and preventive screening programs play a vital role in early diagnosis and improving the survival rate of such patients. This study aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge of colorectal cancer (CRC) among the adult population in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted among the adult population living in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was disseminated among the adult population using WhatsApp and Twitter. The questionnaire contained demographic data and questions to assess the awareness, knowledge, and attitude regarding CRC risk factors and complications and the importance of screening. Results A total of 431 respondents were involved. The most common symptoms of colon cancer were abdominal pain and change in bowel habits. Risk factors associated with colon cancer were inflammatory bowel disease and fatty food. Colonoscopy was the most dominant choice for the detection of colon cancer. Conclusion The awareness of the adult population toward CRC was deficient. Better awareness can be predicted among individuals with better education. Addressing the gaps in awareness is vital to alleviate fears and misconceptions surrounding this disease.

Public Awareness of Colorectal Cancer Screening in the Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia, 2022

BACKGROUND

According to the WHO, cancer is ranked as the second leading cause of death, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018. This study aimed to assess public awareness about colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and the barriers that prevent Saudi individuals from undergoing CRC screening.  Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Prince Mishari Bin Saud General Baljurashi Hospital, and a supervised self-administered questionnaire was utilized. Sociodemographic data, knowledge about colorectal cancer, and attitude toward screening were included in the survey. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 23 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and Pearson's chi-square test. A P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 396 eligible participants completed the survey. About 209 (52%) were female, and 124 (31.3%) belonged to the age group of 18-29 years. Nearly (49.7%) knew that detecting colorectal cancer before symptoms appear is possible. About 64% of the participants cited colonoscopy as the screening method for CRC. More than half of the participants (58.1%) expressed their willingness to be screened for colorectal cancer, while only 2.8% reported that they had undergone screening before. Participants with higher educational status demonstrated better knowledge regarding CRC than others (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

 The overall knowledge of CRC was found to be poor in Al-Baha residents, irrespective of age. Implementing new strategies to increase public awareness about colorectal cancer will aid in the early diagnosis of CRC. We recommend targeted education and screening programs to improve the level of screening awareness and aid in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Colorectal Cancer and Its Screening Among Public in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is defined as a cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. CRC is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Saudi males and ranks third in female individuals. Awareness among the population about CRC symptoms, risk factors, and screening tests is essential for preventing further morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess CRC knowledge in the western region of Saudi Arabia, as well as awareness of CRC risk factors, symptoms, and screening based on various demographic data.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with a representative random sample of 358 Saudi residents in the western region. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed through social media sites starting from October 2021 till December 2021. Participants' awareness of CRC risk factors, symptoms, and screening was assessed using the questionnaire. For data analysis, we used SPSS Statistics, version 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY).

Results: Of the 385 participants, 76.4% were females, and most participants had a university degree level of education. Study respondents reported fear of colonoscopy as the top reason why they avoided CRC screening. Most participants (63.4%) showed insufficient knowledge. Certain factors showed a significant association with the participants' knowledge about CRC, such as age (p<.001), higher education (p=.002), and having a career in health care (p=.002).

Conclusion: As the study resulted in overall insufficient knowledge about CRC among respondents, certain factors showed a significant association with the knowledge level. Raising awareness and health promotion programs should target older age groups and those with below university degree level of education to ultimately prevent morbidity and mortality related to colorectal cancer.

Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening among Average and High-Risk Saudis Population

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening intention is one of the most important elements influencing the longstanding effectiveness of community-based CRC screening programs. The primary purpose of this study is to generate and validate a predictive screening model that investigates the influence of Saudis’ demographics, CRC knowledge, and beliefs on intention to undergo CRC screening via fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Convenience sampling was used to recruit 600 average and high-risk participants from multiple primary health care centers in three major Saudi provinces. A valid and reliable self-administered online survey was used to collect data from March 2021 to October 2021. The final modified screening prediction model explained 57.35% of the variance in screening intention. Intention to screen was significantly influenced by seven factors in which the perceived barriers factor (β = −0.55, p < 0.001) was the strongest predictor. Those who had lower perceived barriers and greater levels of knowledge (β = 0.36, p < 0.001), health motivation (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), perceived benefits of screening (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), severity (β = 0.29, p < 0.001), and susceptibility (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) were more likely to become involved in screening practices. Health care practitioners and various media forms could benefit from the prediction model playing a significant role in raising awareness, reducing perceived barriers, and enhancing Saudi screening rates.

Public awareness of colorectal cancer in the Chinese population: An online cross-sectional survey study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate public awareness of colorectal cancer (three components: total knowledge, confidence and anticipated delay) in the Chinese population, to explore factors associated with total knowledge and to elucidate relationships among three components of public awareness of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

We recruited 562 adult Chinese participants with no history of colorectal cancer between March and May 2020 by convenience sampling method. Data were collected online using a self-designed demographic questionnaire and a simplified Chinese version of the Bowel Cancer Awareness Measure. Univariate analysis and multivariate linear regression were applied.

RESULTS

The mean score for total knowledge was 10.56 (SD: 5.89). Over half of the participants (58.2%) lacked confidence about detecting warning signs. For 42.7% of participants, the anticipated delay was not within the acceptable range (2 weeks). Totally eight demographic variables were identified as significant predictors of total knowledge, accounting for 36.2% of the variance. Total knowledge was positively correlated with confidence (r = 0.126, p < 0.01) and negatively associated with anticipated delay (F = 8.891, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Public awareness of colorectal cancer was low in the Chinese population. Hence, educational interventions targeted for improving knowledge, enhancing individuals' confidence in detecting symptoms and reducing barriers to seeking medical help may be urgently required.

Gastrointestinal cancer prevention policies: A qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis

This qualitative systematic review was conducted to summarize the policies for prevention of common gastrointestinal cancers worldwide. This study was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and ProQuest databases. Two independent reviewers assessed included studies for methodological quality and extracted data by using standardized tools from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Primary study findings were read and reread to identify the strategies or policies used in the studies for prevention of gastrointestinal cancers. The extracted findings were categorized on the basis of their similarity in meaning. These categories were then subjected to a meta-synthesis. The final synthesized findings were graded according to the ConQual approach for establishing confidence in the output of qualitative research synthesis. From the nine included studies in this review, 39 findings were extracted and based on their relevance in meaning were aggregated into 12 categories. Four synthesized findings were developed from these categories. We used World Health Organization report on 2000 for synthesizing the findings. The four synthesized findings were “service provision”, “resource generation”, “financing”, and “stewardship”. In order to reach a comprehensive evidence informed policy package for the prevention of gastrointestinal cancers, there should be a great communication among the interventions conducted directly on patients, health system infrastructures, and resources.

Barriers and facilitators of colorectal cancer screening in Asia

Purpose

One of the most common cancers in Asia is colorectal cancer (CRC). Early diagnosis and timely treatment are necessary for preventing complications and advanced stages of the disease. It is important to evaluate barriers and facilitators of screening in different countries. This systematic review aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators of CRC screening in Asia.

Methods

In this systematic review, for identifying barriers and facilitators of CRC screening, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus in 12 December 2020. Combination keywords such as colorectal cancer, screening, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, faecal occult blood test, barriers, facilitators and the names of each Asian country were used for searching. Full text original studies in English language were accepted in the review.

Results

In total, 36 articles were included in the review. Barriers and facilitators were evaluated. The most common reported barriers were lack of knowledge, fear of result, fear of procedure, fear of pain, lack of awareness, high cost and lack of gastrointestinal symptoms. The most frequent facilitators were having knowledge and awareness of CRC screening, perceived risk and severity, family history of cancer and physician recommendation.

Conclusion

For promoting success in CRC screening programmes, knowing what the barriers and facilitators are is necessary. Awareness and various personal, professional and social factors have been shown to be the major barriers toward CRC screening in most Asian countries.

Community knowledge and awareness of colorectal cancer and screening tools: Community-based survey of 1,912 residents of Riyadh

Background

Participation in Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs is low in Saudi Arabia. Public awareness of CRC and knowledge of available screening tools are crucial for improving screening uptake. This study aimed to examine the level of awareness and knowledge of CRC among the Saudi population.

Materials and methods

A survey-based study was conducted on 1912 residents of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The survey comprised 20 questions; these concerned the definition of the colon and rectum; the function of the colon; the incidence, risk factors, symptoms, screening methods, prevention methods, and treatment methods for CRC; and the value of early detection of CRC.

Results

Of the 1912 participants who completed the survey, only 51.7% knew that the colon was the large intestine, while 57% knew that the rectum was the end of the large intestine. Colonoscopy was the preferred screening tool (72.8%). Most respondents believed early detection of CRC through colonoscopy is associated with high survival rates. However, 65.7% of the participants reported that they would not like to undergo a CRC screening. Higher education level was also associated with knowledge that CRC can develop asymptomatically, with postgraduates most likely to know this (P = 0.032).

Conclusions

There is a lack of knowledge regarding CRC among certain demographic groups in Saudi Arabia, and education and screening programs should target populations with the most limited knowledge.

Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations and Treatment Outcomes of Colon Cancer Patients in National Guard Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Introduction

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and its incidence is increasing day by day. Provision of early management to cancer patients can lead to a good prognosis. Hence, we evaluated the risk factors, clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes for colon cancer patients in National Guard Health Affairs (NGHA), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from January 2010 to December 2020 by comparing those results according to their age groups.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on 251 colon cancer patients who underwent a surgical procedure. The patients were divided into the following age groups: ≤ 50 (young), 51-60 and > 60 (old) years old. The demographic variables such as age and gender were collected. The results were classified into risk factors, clinical features and treatment outcomes. The comparison between different age groups was made using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. The data was stored in Excel 2016 (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, USA) and analyzed using SPSS (IBM Corp, Armonk, USA).

Results

The results revealed that most patients were males and the median age for diagnosis was 58 years old. There were 15.1% of patients with a positive family history. Moreover, the most common anatomical position was the left side of the colon in all age groups. Most patients had moderately differentiated colon cancer in the histopathological diagnosis. Laparotomy was the most common procedure done to patients in all age groups. There was no difference between all age groups and the aggressiveness of colon cancer. Young patients (≤ 50 years) had a higher percentage to have 5-year recurrence rate (42 % vs 19% vs 25%, p-value < 0.05) in comparison to patients between 51-60 years and old patients (> 60 years) respectively. However, there was no association between all age groups and 5-year mortality rate (22% vs 9% vs 19%, p-value = 0.171).

Conclusion

In comparison to old patients (> 60 years), young patients (≤ 50 years) have a more rate of recurrent colon cancer. In relation to all age groups, there were no differences in terms of the aggressive presentation or 5-year mortality rates. In addition, it appears that there were some differences between our study results and worldwide results. This may be because of occupational, cultural and/or genetic variations. Further studies with a higher number of patients and multicenter data collection are highly recommended.

Barriers of colorectal cancer screening test among adults in the Saudi Population: A Cross-Sectional study

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Lack of physician recommendation was commonly reported barrier to CRC screening.

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Barriers to CRC screening were observed more in females.

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Barriers to CRC screening were seen more in those who had not performed CRC screening.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death worldwide. CRC can be completely cured if detected at an early stage with screening. However, many barriers to screening have been reported. This study aimed to identify the potential barriers to CRC screening among the Saudi population aged ≥45 years. A cross-sectional study of randomly selected adults (aged ≥45 years) attending primary care clinics at KKUH in Saudi Arabia was conducted. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. A total of 448 participants were included. In general, the most commonly reported barrier to CRC screening was a lack of physician recommendation (77.1%). Moreover, fear of painful colonoscopy procedures and a lack of knowledge regarding the availability of the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) were reported by 51.6% and 57.8% of patients, respectively. Significant gender differences were observed, with females reporting more barriers to CRC screening than males (general barriers [p < 0.001] and colonoscopy-specific barriers [p = 0.003]). Participants who had not undergone any previous CRC screening reported significantly more barriers compared to those who had undergone a previous CRC screening (general barriers [p = 0.015], colonoscopy-specific barriers [p = 0.006], and FOBT specific barriers [p = 0.024]). Because a lack of physician recommendation was the most commonly reported general barrier, we recommend that physicians emphasize the need for CRC screening, particularly to high-risk patients. Extensive campaigns and programs must be launched to raise awareness about the importance of screening for CRC. Additionally, gender-specific strategies need to be formulated to promote CRC screening in females.

Attitudes toward and Knowledge of Colorectal Cancer Screening among an Omani Adult Population Attending a Teaching Hospital

Objective:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Oman after breast and thyroid. Awareness regarding the availability of CRC screening services could play a major role in promoting early detection and reducing mortality rates. The aim of this study was to identify public knowledge and attitudes toward CRC screening.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 410 members of the public attending the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Muscat, Oman. A questionnaire was developed to assess the participants’ general knowledge, barriers and factors affecting attitudes, beliefs and behaviors regarding CRC screening.

Results:

A total of 410 members of the public participated from 500 invited (response rate: 82.0%). Most of the participants had not heard of CRC screening (76.3%) and were unaware of different screening methods (92.9%). The majority (93.9%) had not undergone CRC screening in Oman; however, 70.6% reported that they would be willing to do so in the future, particularly if recommended by doctors (52.7%). Barriers to screening included feeling embarrassed by the idea of a colonoscopy (73.9%), not having any symptoms of CRC (65.1%) and a fear of being diagnosed with CRC (55.6%). A bivariate analysis indicated that males demonstrated significantly more awareness of CRC screening compared to females (64.9% versus 35.1%; p = 0.004) and younger participants (<40 years of age) were significantly more aware of CRC screening compared to their older counterparts (75.3% versus 24.7%; p = 0.025).

Conclusions:

The majority of public in Oman showed low knowledge and awareness of CRC screening and identified several emotional barriers that might result in poor participation should screening be considered. Public education and the involvement of healthcare professionals is paramount to the implementation of a large-scale CRC screening program in Oman. In addition, addressing the sources of emotional barriers to screening is necessary.

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards early screening of colorectal cancer in Riyadh

Background and Aims:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cause of mortality worldwide. It is preventable, treatable when detected early. The aim of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of the participants toward CRC and its early screening, and identify the sources of information on the subjects.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study on the people 40y old and above at the primary care clinics at King Saud university medical city (KSUMC) in Riyadh. The estimated sample size was 245 subjects whom we requested to complete a self-administered Arabic questionnaire, which consisted of three parts. These were: 1. Demographic data, 2. KAP toward CRC, its early detection. 3 sources of information of the public about colorectal cancer.

Results:

A total of 231 subjects participated; (54.5%) were male (mean age = 50.7 ± 9.8). About 47% of the participants heard about cancer screening, and 45% knew that colonoscopy is used for such purposes. Another 24.2% were aware that occult blood in the stool test is a method of early detection of colon cancer. About 40% to 50% of the subjects were knowledgeable about hazardous factors and cautioning symptoms for CRC. Only 6.5% of the subjects did an early screening for CRC, but 82.9% would do it if their doctor advised them to do so.

Conclusion:

The participant's knowledge and early checkups of CRC are inadequate. They would undergo early screening if their doctors advised them to do so. It is time to develop a national policy for CRC screening involving primary care doctors and utilizing social media to improve people's information.

Knowledge, attitude, preventive practices and perceived barriers to screening about colorectal cancer among university students of newly merged district, Kpk, Pakistan - A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the world and in Pakistan it ranks at fifth position. The present study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, preventive practices and perceived barriers to screening about colorectal cancer among university students.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted after developing a self-administered questionnaire among the university students of newly merged districts of Kpk, Pakistan.

RESULT

A total of 302 students (232 male and 70 female) participated in the study. The knowledge score of the participants regarding the risk factors and warning signs of colorectal cancer was 59.9% and 40%. More than 90% of the participants were of the view that colorectal cancer diagnosis at initial stages can improve treatment and around 80% were in favor of undergoing regular physical examination to avoid colorectal cancer. Only 37.7% of the participants had intentionally collected information about colorectal cancer. The percentage of participants who intentionally participated in educational activities related to colorectal cancer was 33.1%. Furthermore, only 24.4% of the participant had ever taken part in colorectal cancer screening. The barriers toward colorectal cancer screening were fear of finding colorectal cancer and the anxiety of screening procedures. However, around 32% of the participants had no knowledge about colorectal cancer screening.

CONCLUSION

In view of the findings of this study, it can be suggested that community awareness programs that are focused towards screening of colorectal cancer may be initiated in the newly merged districts of Kpk, Pakistan. The implementation of such colorectal cancer screening program can help in its early detection and can potentially lower the associated mortality and morbidity risk with this disease.

Assessing knowledge on preventive colorectal cancer screening in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Context

According to the Saudi Cancer Registry's 2014 Cancer Incidence Report, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the leading form of malignant cancer among Saudi men and ranks third among women. Raising awareness about CRC risk factors could lead to a significant decline in incidence of disease.

Aims

To assess CRC awareness and evaluate the main barriers that might prevent individuals' participation in screening.

Settings and Design

A self-administered survey was conducted over two days as part of a CRC awareness campaign in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in March, 2018.

Methods and Materials

The survey addressed issues regarding knowledge of CRC and available screening methods. The survey also examined barriers that might make one reluctant to undergo preventative screening. Stata/SE 15.0 was used for all statistical analyses.

Statistical Analyses

Continuous variables were described with frequencies and percentages. Stepwise linear regression models were constructed to predict CRC knowledge and barriers.

Results

Out of 422 participants, 50.2% were men. Most respondents were between 15-35 years old (65.8%). Multivariate analysis revealed that gender was a significant predictor of CRC knowledge. Furthermore, the variables of education and family history of CRC significantly predicted subjects' awareness of colonoscopic screenings. The most common barriers for seeking screening included fear of the procedure, absence of clinical symptoms, and fear of the results.

Conclusions

Our results highlight deficits in public CRC knowledge and their awareness of preventative measures. These shortcomings were found to be mainly related to education level. Specific barriers affecting screening decisions were also identified; intensive efforts on awareness to overcome these obstacles will be required.

Awareness of Colorectal Cancer and Attitudes Towards Its Screening Guidelines in Lebanon

Background:

Screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) provides an effective strategy for early detection and prevention of the disease; however, global screening rates are still low.

Purpose:

This study aims at assessing the awareness of CRC risk factors, warning signs, and attitudes towards CRC guidelines and screening modalities, in order to identify the barriers to and correlates of CRC screening in the Lebanese population.

Methods:

A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 371 participants in the largest health care medical center in Lebanon. A validated 12- and 9-item Cancer Awareness Measurement questionnaire was used to assess participants’ awareness of CRC risk factors and warning signs.

Results:

83% and 67% of participants were not aware of CRC risk factors and warning signs, respectively, 15% have previously undergone CRC screening, 56% were aware of the necessity for screening, and 43% were willing to undergo screening. Factors affecting awareness of the necessity for CRC screening, past screening and willingness to screen included awareness of risk factors and warning signs, undergoing regular physician check-ups, having a family physician as a primary source of knowledge of CRC, and knowing a family member or friend diagnosed with CRC. Barriers to screening were related to participants’ evaluation of the screening technique and misconceptions about this disease.

Conclusion:

Serious active measures should be taken by health care sectors, authoritative groups, primary care physicians, and awareness campaigns to fill the gap in awareness of this disease and to alleviate the barriers and misconceptions around it.

A Rural-Urban Comparison of Knowledge, Risk- Factors and Preventive Practices for Colorectal Cancer among Adults in Lagos State

Objective:

To assess and compare the knowledge, risk-factors and preventive practices for colorectal cancer among adults in Lagos State.

Material and methods:

This was a cross-sectional comparative study conducted among 607 respondents selected from one rural (Ikorodu) and one urban (Surulere) LGA using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire administered by trained research assistants between April and September 2017.Data was analyzed using Epi-info statistical software version 3.5.1. Univariate and bivariate analysis was carried out and -p values of ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results:

Respondents’ knowledge of colorectal cancer was generally low, (rural-78.2%, urban- 62.2%, p<0.001). Urban respondents were significantly more knowledgeable than their rural counterparts (rural- 21.8%, urban- 37.8%, p<0.001). The presence of CRC risk-factors were higher among urban respondents (urban-49.3%, rural-42.6%, p= 0.09), however this difference was not statistically significant. Preventive practices were generally poor in both groups, although more (18.1%) urban respondents significantly took preventive actions against CRC compared with rural (6.9%) respondents, (p<0.001).Increasing levels of education were significantly associated with higher knowledge level in both groups (p≤0.05).

Conclusion:

The level of knowledge of colorectal cancer was generally poor in both groups but significantly poorer among rural respondents. The presence of known risk- factor was higher among urban respondents while preventive practices were poor in both groups.

Beliefs Underlying Messages of Anti-Cancer-Screening Websites in Japan: A Qualitative Analysis

Background:

Cancer screening rates are lower in Japan than in Western countries. Meanwhile, anti-cancer-screening activists take to the internet to spread their messages that cancer screening has little or no efficacy, poses substantial health risks such as side effects from radiation exposure, and that people should forgo cancer screening. We applied a qualitative approach to explore the beliefs underlying the messages of anti-cancer-screening websites, by focusing on perceived value the beliefs provided to those who held them.

Methods:

We conducted online searches using Google Japan and Yahoo! Japan, targeting websites we classified as “pro,” “anti,” or “neutral” depending on their claims. We applied a dual analytic approach- inductive thematic analysis and deductive interpretative analysis- to the textual data of the anti websites.

Results:

Of the 88 websites analyzed, five themes that correspond to beliefs were identified: destruction of common knowledge, denial of standard cancer control, education about right cancer control, education about hidden truths, and sense of superiority that only I know the truth. Authors of anti websites ascribed two values (“safety of people” and “self-esteem”) to their beliefs.

Conclusion:

The beliefs of authors of anti-cancer-screening websites were supposed to be strong. It would be better to target in cancer screening promotion not outright screening refusers but screening hesitant people who are more amenable to changing their attitudes toward screening. The possible means to persuade them were discussed.

Assertions of Japanese Websites for and Against Cancer Screening: a Text Mining Analysis

Background: Cancer screening rates are lower in Japan than in Western countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. While health professionals publish pro-cancer-screening messages online to encourage proactive seeking for screening, anti-screening activists use the same medium to warn readers against following guidelines. Contents of pro- and anti-cancer-screening sites may contribute to readers’ acceptance of one or the other position. We aimed to use a text-mining method to examine frequently appearing contents on sites for and against cancer screening. Methods: We conducted online searches in December 2016 using two major search engines in Japan (Google Japan and Yahoo! Japan). Targeted websites were classified as “pro”, “anti”, or “neutral” depending on their claims, with the author(s) classified as “health professional”, “mass media”, or “layperson”. Text-mining analyses were conducted, and statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test. Results: Of the 169 websites analyzed, the top-three most frequently appearing content topics in pro sites were reducing mortality via cancer screening, benefits of early detection, and recommendations for obtaining detailed examination. The top three most frequent in anti-sites were harm from radiation exposure, non-efficacy of cancer screening, and lack of necessity of early detection. Anti-sites also frequently referred to a well-known Japanese radiologist, Makoto Kondo, who rejects the standard forms of cancer care. Conclusion: Our findings should enable authors of pro-cancer-screening sites to write to counter misleading anti-cancer-screening messages and facilitate dissemination of accurate information.