Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge about colorectal cancer (CRC) in adult healthy individuals in Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The main point of the current study was the need to increase the level of awareness of CRC to establish a link between the public, health centers and educational institutions to spread the awareness of CRC.
Setting and design: Survey/questionnaire.
Patients and methods: Random, adult individuals 18 years old or more in Al-Dammam, Saudi Araba. They were approach to participate in a questionnaire about CRC. The questionnaire (either paper or online), consent forms, and the questionnaire were developed in the Arabic language. Data were analyzed by demographic criteria, including age, gender, marital status, and level of education, to determine if there are any difference between them. Statistical analysis: Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 (SPSSv21).
Results: In total, 402 respondents completed the survey. Most respondents believe that screening for colorectal cancer should begin before the onset of the symptoms (70%). Less than 30% of all respondents believe that red meat is a risk factor for CRC, diabetes (18%), and family history (53%). Their answers were varied according to the education level. Even though, there were some misconceptions in more educated people.
Conclusion: Although older individuals and those with higher education tended to answer questions correctly more often, there is a need to improve the knowledge about the disease and its screening tools in order to encourage them to go through these tests. A national education program in Saudi Arabia is recommended to improve CRC knowledge.

Keywords: Colorectal cancer; CRC screening; Colon polyps; Colon ulcer; Cancer