Knowledge and Practices of Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Examinations in Jordan: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is ranked the third most common cancer among men and the second<br />in women. The American Cancer Society recommends that starting from the age 50 years, both men and women should<br />be screened for polyps and for early detection of CRC. In Jordan, CRC is the most common cancer among males and<br />the second most common cancer among females. This study aims to assess the knowledge and practices of CRC early<br />detection tests and the barriers and motivators of screening in Jordan. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire and<br />face-to-face interviews were conducted with 300 males and 300 females recruited using stratified clustered random<br />sampling technique from four governorates in Jordan. The participants were aged 30 to 65 years, without a previous<br />history of CRC. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were used to assess knowledge and practices of CRC early detection<br />tests. Results: Overall, there were poor knowledge and practices of CRC early detection tests. Better knowledge and<br />practices were significantly associated with previously consulting a doctor due to symptoms and worries from CRC,<br />receiving a recommendation from a doctor to perform CRC testing, or having more knowledge about CRC signs and<br />symptoms (p≤ 0.05). Conclusions: This study indicates that there is a need for raising awareness about CRC early<br />detection tests in Jordan, especially among those aged 50 years and above, and those who have a family history of<br />CRC. Additionally, it is important to educate and encourage physicians to recommend CRC screening to patients that<br />are at higher risk of the disease.