Use of metformin in the management of colorectal cancer: A survey

Abstract

A survey was conducted among 42 Howard University first year professional pharmacy students regarding their knowledge and opinions about the use of metformin in colorectal patients. Twenty-five (59.5%) respondents agreed that metformin reduces the risk of colorectal cancer in type 2 diabetes patients, and the majority (n=22, 52.4%) disagreed with the statement that metformin is a drug recommended for colorectal cancer. Twenty-five (59.5%) replied that colorectal cancer is a common illness regardless of age range. Twenty-four (57.1%) survey participants responded in favor of patients taking metformin to lower the risk of colon cancer. On the other hand, the majority (n=25, 59.5%) agreed that colorectal patients with diabetes mellitus taking metformin have the same outcome as those who do not have diabetes. In response to the opinion part of the questionnaire, the majority (n=23, 54.7%) admitted to feeling comfortable about recommending metformin to increase the chance of survival of colorectal patients, while only 18 (42.8%) were confident in explaining the benefits of metformin in preventing colorectal cancer. Twenty-three (54.7%) of respondents prefer natural and holistic methods, and 16 (28.1%) knew someone with type 2 diabetes who was taking metformin for the prevention of colorectal cancer. Most respondents (n=29, 69%) believe prescription medications should be used to prevent colorectal cancer rather than metformin which has inadequate supporting evidence. A sub-analysis appears to indicate that female participants, those with previous pharmacy-related jobs, and those with fewer years of work experience disagree with most of the opinion questions compared to their counterparts. They also had a wider range of opinions among themselves compared to their counterparts.