Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions of Colorectal Cancer Screening in Brazzaville

Abstract

Objective: assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of Brazzaville residents on colorectal cancer and its screening. Population and Methods : a CAP-type cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1 to October 31, 2022, with 803 workers approached at their place of service. Information was collected using a questionnaire administered to participants. The variables studied concerned knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about colorectal cancer. SPSS software, along with Chi-square and Fisher tests, was used for data entry and analysis. Odds ratios were calculated to determine the strength of the association between variables. Results: The average age of the participants was 33.5 ± 10 years, with a sex ratio of 0.9. There were 231 health workers. The main sources of information were health personnel (78.2%) and the internet (52.6%). The site of the pathology was known to 87% of participants. About 40% identified age, genetic predispositions, and a diet rich in animal fats as risk factors. No signs of the disease were known by 50% of the participants. Colonoscopy was known as a screening method by 40% of participants. Seventy-five percent were willing to participate in a CRC awareness campaign, but only 5% agreed to a screening colonoscopy, although 96% recognized its usefulness. Overall, the level of knowledge was insufficient in 70.4% of cases; attitudes were adapted in 55.7% of cases, and perceptions were adapted in 97.3% of cases. Factors influencing knowledge included young age (p = 0.006), a good level of education, being a healthcare worker, and high socio-economic level. Conclusion: colorectal cancer and its screening are poorly understood by the population. Awareness activities must be organized to improve knowledge and promote screening and early diagnosis of CRC.