Public Awareness of Colorectal Cancer: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide. Early detection of colorectal and breast
cancer is critical in cancer control and prevention. There are two major components of early detection of cancer: education to
promote early diagnosis and screening. Recognizing possible warning signs and symptoms of CRC, and taking prompt actions
leads to early diagnosis. The study aimed to assess the awareness among Libyan people towards colon cancer including their
knowledge about symptoms, warning signs, risk factors and early detection and screening, and also to explore the attitude
regarding CRC prevention.
A descriptive cross- sectional study was conducted in Benghazi during December 2017- February 2018. A Convenient sample
of 500 subjects was included in the survey, a verbal agreement to collect the data was asked to answer questions by direct
interview using a questionnaire. A score technique was chosen as suitable method to identify the level of awareness regarding
colorectal cancer.
The study subjects were500 Libyan adult; 50% were males. The mean age was 42.49± 13.78. Mass media was a source of
information among 57% of them. Also 57.6% of them knew the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer correctly, 61.8% of
participants heard about screening of cancer and 63% of them they avoid risk factors of colorectal cancer.
The level of awareness was an average. Efforts toward increasing awareness that cancer is treatable with a potential for cure if
diagnosis early, are necessary. Periodic health educational programs to increase awareness of possible warning signs of colon
cancer among general public can impact on the disease because early detection and diagnosis can help save lives.