Public awareness of colon cancer screening and barriers to help-seeking in Saudi men using cancer awareness measure questionnaire

Abstract

Background: In men, colorectal cancer (CRC) is ranked third globally. Screening for CRC is necessary as it has a long duration between early and advanced stages. Thus, this study aimed to explore public awareness regarding colon cancer screening and barriers to delayed help-seeking among Saudi men. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted among Saudi males aged 45-75 years, who were eligible for colonoscopy screening and were not diagnosed with CRC yet. The Cancer Awareness Measure self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from participants. Results: A total of 449 males participated in this study; around 51% had heard about CRC and 17.4% had heard about colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) methods. Almost 4.5% reported shyness, as the barrier to doing colonoscopy. Around 33%, 30%, 15%-20%, and 18% of men obtained the maximum score of knowledge regarding risk factors, signs and symptoms, susceptibility, and awareness of CRCS, respectively. The most known risk factor was smoking, and the highest factor for immediate help-seeking was the presence of blood in feces. The most important barriers were appointment scheduling, followed by fear of diagnosis, and the lowest barrier was transportation. Conclusion: The overall awareness of CRCS was found among almost one-half of the participants. For instance, awareness should be increased, as early diagnosis is critical for reducing mortality due to CRC and for a better prognosis. Additionally, CRC has a high potential for treatment if detected early.