Factors Associated With Colorectal Cancer Screening Among First-Degree Relatives of Patients With Colorectal Cancer in China

Abstract

Background: First-degree relatives of patients with colorectal cancer have an elevated risk of colorectal cancer. However, the behavior and factors potential influencing first-degree relatives regarding colorectal cancer screening in China remain unknown.

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the screening behavior and related factors of first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients.

Methods: A cross-sectional design was applied, and 201 first-degree relatives participated from August 2018 to July 2019. Data were collected about demographic information, the "Colorectal Cancer Perceptions Scale," and screening behavior of first-degree relatives. Factors associated with screening behavior were identified using logistic regression analysis.

Results: Only 18.9% of first-degree relatives had participated in colonoscopy screening. Two Health Belief Model factors were the influencing factors of their participation in colorectal cancer screening. Higher possibility of colorectal cancer screening of first-degree relatives was associated with higher perceived susceptibility (odds ratio, 1.224; 95% confidence interval, 1.075-1.395) and lower perception of barriers (odds ratio, 0.880; 95% confidence interval, 0.820-0.944) of first-degree relatives.

Conclusions: Participation in colorectal cancer screening by first-degree relatives requires improvement; perceived susceptibility and perception of barriers were the most important predictors.

Implications for practice: Health professionals can enhance awareness of colorectal cancer susceptibility and address barriers to colorectal cancer screening among first-degree relatives at both individual and social levels.