Assessment the Awareness of the Syrian Population toward the Risk Factors and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer: Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background This cross-sectional research seeks to examine the level of knowledge of CRC risk factors and symptoms in Syria.Methods An online cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 August to 25 August 2022. The sample inclusion criteria of study participants were Syrian nationals aged 18 or older from all Syrian governorates.Results Among 702 Syrian national participants (n = 430, 61.3%) were females. About half of the inquired participants have shown a good knowledge of colorectal cancer symptoms (n = 301, 42.9%). However, only (n = 123, 17.6%) participants have shown a good understanding of colorectal cancer risk factors. Most participants were somewhat confident in their ability to recognize colorectal cancer symptoms (43.60%), whereas just 4.60% of people were highly confident in their ability to recognize them. Only (24.10%) of the participants were not confident in identifying colorectal cancer symptoms. Only 22.90% of participants believe that colorectal cancer occurs around age 60. (42.20%) of participants are unaware of the NHS colorectal cancer screening program.Conclusion According to our findings, there is insufficient understanding of the colorectal cancer symptoms and risk factors among the general population in Syria that may contribute to delays in detecting the diagnosis of colorectal cancer. Consequently, there is a greater need to increase colorectal cancer awareness and education programs on the disease's signs and symptoms and its risk factors.