General public attitude and knowledge toward colorectal cancer screening: a cross-sectional study in Riyadh City

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cancer in Saudi Arabia that affects both genders but predominantly males. We aimed to identify the public awareness level about CRC screening among average-risk individuals. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional interview from October to November 2021, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Participants varied with regard to biodata and education level. In addition, respondents with a family history of the disease and those who work or study in the medical field were excluded. Results: We collected data from 600 participants. The majority were female (52.3%), and 36.6% were between 30 and 39 years of age. Most of the respondents (60.8%) were university graduates. Overall, less than 5% of them did not know that screening could be associated with early detection of cancer or linked to a better prognosis, and 19.2% did not know that screening might affect the treatment plan. Additionally, 16.5% of participants selected colonoscopy as the only screening tool, but 4.5% of them selected both colonoscopy and fecal occult blood test. It was believed by 49.3% of the participants that screening should be done only at the onset of symptoms. The most common reason given for refusing screening tests was lack of symptoms (38.5%). Conclusion: We have concluded a lower level than expected, compared to other studies, of CRC screening in Riyadh city. More focus on public awareness is required.