Relationship of colorectal cancer awareness and knowledge with colorectal cancer screening

摘要

Aim: The aim was to describe the association of awareness and knowledge with participation in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Materials & methods: Telephone survey research was conducted with South Carolina (USA) residents aged 50-75 years using a 144-item instrument. Data were analyzed with SAS and Stata. Adjusted odds ratios are reported. Results: Respondents (n = 1302) had heard of CRC screening (96%) and exhibited high levels of CRC awareness and knowledge; only 74% had ever been screened. Higher levels of knowledge were associated with a greater likelihood of having ever been screened (odds ratio: 1.05; 95% Cl: 1.02-1.41; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Results showed high levels of awareness and knowledge, but modest participation in CRC. Transforming awareness and knowledge into CRC screening participation should be a priority.