Perceptions of knowledge, beliefs, and barriers to colorectal cancer screening

J Cancer Educ. 2008;23(4):238-40. doi: 10.1080/08858190802189030.

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is an effective tool that aggressively identifies and treats preventable colorectal disease. Yet incidence and mortality disparities still exist.

Methods: A cross-sectional sample of persons at risk of CRC residing in a Midwestern metropolitan area (n = 43) reported their knowledge, beliefs, and perceived barriers of CRC screening.

Results: Minorities were significantly more likely to have inaccurate knowledge/beliefs and increased perceived internal/external barriers of CRC screening than Whites.

Conclusions: Health education programs designed to increase CRC screening efficacy have to address the predisposed knowledge, beliefs, and perceived barriers of diverse persons at risk.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / psychology*
  • Medical Oncology / education
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Surveys and Questionnaires