Assessment of knowledge toward colon cancer among adult Saudi Arabians

Abstract

Background: Colon cancer is one of the common diseases occurring in the gulf area, especially in young adults. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce mortality and improve cure rates. However, awareness of the public about early detection of colon cancer is crucial to reach these outcomes. This survey analysis aimed to explore the level of knowledge of adult Saudi Arabians toward risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of colon cancer. Methodology: A self-administered structured questionnaire was sent to the public through online ‘’Google forms,’’ including questions on epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of colon cancer in addition to socio-demographic data. Data analysis was done through SPSS program version 22. Results: Most of the participants did not know the age to start colon cancer screening (91.1%), and 51.2% of the participants did not know how common colon cancer is. The average total score for knowledge questions was 7.46 ± 2.301. There was a significantly higher knowledge score (7.91 ± 2.079) in the age group between 20 and 29 years old (p < 0.001). Additionally, single participants had a significantly higher score (7.65 ± 2.577) with a p-value = 0.042. Participants with a university degree showed higher mean score (7.68 ± 2.176) with p < 0.001. Conclusion: Level of knowledge about risk factors, symptoms, and screening of colon cancer is considered low among the population of Saudi Arabia. Further studies are required to examine the adherence of the Saudi population to colon cancer screening.