Knowledge and Awareness of Colorectal Cancer among University Students in Oman

Abstract

Objective: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the top ranked cancers in Oman and the incidences of CRC have been dramatically increasing in recent times. The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge of CRC and to understand the level of awareness on CRC screening methods among undergraduate medical students.Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Oman among the undergraduate medical students. The study was a survey based on a questionnaire consisting of 27 items that addressed general risk factors, dietary risk factors, signs and symptoms, screening, and prognostic factors of CRC. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 22.Results: A total of three hundred and eighty-two (n=382) students from the premedical (45, 11.8%), preclinical (249, 65.2%) and clinical (88, 23.0%) years participated in the survey. In all the five categories, general risk factors, dietary risk factors, signs and symptoms, screening and prognostic factors, the clinical students had better knowledge and awareness compared to the lower academic year students. Conclusion: There was low level of awareness among the premedical students, and had shown increased level of awareness in subsequent academic years. Undergraduate teachings should focus more on factual knowledge, skills, and screening for colon cancer. Students need to actively participate in public awareness about CRC through community programs in order to boost their knowledge. These initiatives by students can bring about changes in society as well.