Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer and also the fourth most common cause of cancer related death in both men and women worldwide. The CRC is considered to be the second killer in Kuwait after breast cancer. Aim: to assess and identify the level of knowledge and awareness of colorectal cancer with regards to risk factors, symptoms and screening/imaging procedures among general public in the State of Kuwait. Method: A total of 1000 questionnaires were distributed and 675 questionnaires were completed, thus giving a response rate of 67.5%. The questionnaire was split into 4 categories representing demographic variables, risk factors, symptoms of CRC and awareness of diagnostic procedures. Statistical analysis was carried out using non-parametric test K-W. Results: It showed that 75% of the participants had heard about CRC. The most frequent risk factor that was chosen was the genetic factors and family history (73.5%) with P ˂ 0.05; however, the minimal risk factor was diabetes (31%). Most of the symptoms found to be related to colon rectal cancer were bloody stool, lower abdominal pain, obstructed intestine, and change in the nature of the exit but the least common symptom was due to anemia (33%). MRI was identified to be the most frequent diagnostic procedure (36%) followed by CT scan (31%). On the other hand, there were 187 (27.7%) of the participants who had limited knowledge about these different diagnostic procedures. Conclusion: The need for public awareness about diabetes as an important risk factor of CRC is necessary. Public seminars, school visits and social media will have important role in educating the public with regards to symptoms and diagnostic procedures of CRC.
Keywords: Colorectal cancer; knowledge; awareness.
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