Knowledge and belief of fecal occult blood screening: A systematic review.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with a high incidence and mortality rate. Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is effective in the prevention of CRC. This study aimed to assess knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT-based screening. This study used PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE Complete, and Web of Science to search for articles. Original full-text studies in English language focusing on knowledge and beliefs of FOBT screening were included. A total of 32 articles were included. This study indicated that the population in most studies had inadequate knowledge and lacked beliefs toward FOBT-based screening. Most of the extracted studies showed that less than half of the participants had heard of FOBT-based screening. Six studies showed that less than 50% of participants had knowledge of FOBT age. Three studies found that less than 40% of participants were aware of the screening interval. Some participants perceived the benefits of FOBT-based screening, while others perceived many barriers to the test. Participants' knowledge and belief in FOBT-based screening were insufficient. This review highlights the importance of educational programs to increase knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT-based screening. It is important to include FOBT-based screening in the health care system to promote the secondary prevention of CRC.