Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Awareness among Primary Healthcare Providers

Abstract

Background: According to the Ministry of Health data, cancer prevalence is growing internationally and in Saudi Arabia, particularly colorectal cancer (CRC). We also noticed several individuals with a spectrum of different clinical presentations of gastro intestinal symptoms among adults in our routine primary health care (PHC) practice. Methodology: A 379 person cross-sectional research was undertaken among PHC participants from June 2021 to December 2022. SPSS was used to enter and evaluate data. Statistical tests such as basic proportions, chi square test for categorical data, risk variables relationship with CRC, and logistic regression analysis were used. The current study found that nearly half of the individuals (50.9%) had strong CRC knowledge of common symptoms. Dietary variables, fast meals, and greasy foods were cited by nearly two-thirds of the study group (69.5%) as potential causes of CRC. Furthermore, two-thirds (68.6%) were aware of the CRC screening test. Regression analysis was used, and a significant correlation was found between risk variables of fast-food intake, daily red meat consumption, and physical inactivity with CRC knowledge (P - 0.026, 0.012, and 0.004, respectively). Conclusions: According to the findings, primary health care attendants have a low level of CRC awareness. Almost one-third (35.6%) of persons will have a FOBE test for CRC. There is a need to raise knowledge of risk factors and CRC screening, as well as to strengthen current awareness programs. More research is needed to back up the current study findings in our population