Koreans’ Awareness and Preventive Behaviors Regarding Colorectal Cancer Screening

Abstract

Background: Koreans in the Republic of Korea had high incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC),<br />late stage of CRC diagnosis, and low CRC screening. The purpose of this study was to gain a more thorough understanding<br />of CRC awareness, preventive behaviors, and preferred strategies to improve CRC screening behaviors among Koreans.<br />Methods: Individual interviews with 33 Koreans aged 50 and older were conducted using semi-structured, open-ended<br />questions. All interview data were recorded and analyzed using direct content analysis. Results: To prevent CRC,<br />all participants focused on primary prevention including healthy lifestyle more than secondary prevention such as<br />screening. Motivators of CRC screening were (a) symptoms, (b) being scared by acquaintances with CRC, (c) being<br />healthy for the family, (d) others' recommendations, and (f) annual fecal occult blood test (FOBT) in the National Cancer<br />Screening Program. Barriers to CRC screening were (a) no symptom, (b) discomfort on test procedure, (c) lack of<br />knowledge, (d) low perceived risk of developing CRC, (e) mistrust in CRC screening tests or health care providers, (f)<br />fear of CRC diagnosis, (g) embarrassment, and (h) colonoscopy was a follow-up test in the National Cancer Screening<br />Program. Participants suggested preferred strategies using various information delivery methods. Conclusions: This<br />study suggests that we should provide accurate knowledge, emphasize importance of secondary prevention, enhance<br />motivators and decrease barriers, and use multilevel approach incorporating preferred strategies to improve CRC<br />screening behaviors among Koreans.