ASSESS KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCES, AND BARRIERS TO COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

Background: The related morbidity and death rates can be considerably decreased with early identification and screening for colorectal cancer (CRC). In primary care settings, healthcare professionals (HCPs) are essential to cancer prevention and early identification via screening.

Aim: This study looked into HCPs' perceptions, experiences, and awareness of the obstacles that CRC screening faces in primary care settings.

Methods: Data from 236 health center employees were gathered using a SAQ that is self-administered and uses a cross-sectional approach. Nurses (45.8%), doctors (45.3%), and other professions (7.2%) made up the participants.

Results: The recommended age for individuals with average risk to start CRC screening was not well understood by medical professionals (30%). On knowledge questions about CRC screening, doctors performed better than nurses. 75.8% of HCPs thought that CRC could be avoided. Healthcare providers found out that many patients are afraid to find out if they have cancer because it makes getting checked for colorectal cancer more difficult for them. Also, many patients don't know much about the tests used for colorectal cancer screening. There are not enough healthcare providers who are experienced in doing the tests for colorectal cancer. And there is no set policy or way of doing colorectal cancer screening.

Conclusion: Primary care providers lack sufficient understanding regarding colorectal cancer screening. To raise HCPs' awareness and compliance with current screening standards, tailored continuing education programs and other interventions are required. Increased CRC screening in primary care settings may result from this.