Knowledge, Attitudes and Awareness about Colorectal Cancer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in Saudi Arabia, ranking first among men and third among women. Colorectal cancer can be easily prevented through CRC screening which can detect the disease during its early stages when the survival rates are high. The aim of this study was todetermine the level of knowledge, awareness and attitudes about colorectal cancer among Saudi people. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among general population of different regions of Saudi Arabia from 1st of January 2018 to 28th of February 2018. The study questionnaire, containing 25 items, was adapted from surveys identified in the relevant literature. The CRC awareness questionnaire consisted of an awareness section, knowledge section and attitude of participants toward colorectal cancer screening. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 521 general populations answered the questionnaire. Majority of participants (82%) were bachelor’s degree holders and females represent (60%). Symptoms such as change in bowel habit, blood in the stool, weight loss and abdominal pain were recognized by only 54%, 41%, 45% and 52% of the respondents, respectively. Common risk factors such as positive family history, obesity and old age were acknowledged only by less than 34%, 29% and 33% of the respondents. More than one-third of the participants (45%) had received information material regarding CRC from their curriculum and by social media and nearly 30% from other sources such as TV, hospital and mass media. Attitude regarding colorectal screening was positive for 71%, Almost 71% of the respondents willing to have a screening test for the bowel cancer, even without any symptom. Conclusion: Although majority of the respondents had positive attitude toward concept of cancer screening but their knowledge and awareness about colorectal cancer was low which indicate the need for promotion of cancer education among public.