Gaps in awareness and practice of healthy lifestyles among individuals at high risk of colorectal cancer: A qualitative evidence synthesis

Abstract

Aims: To systematically examine and review relevant qualitative studies exploring the current lifestyle among individuals at high risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), and their awareness of the role of a healthy lifestyle in CRC prevention.

Background: The increasing incidence and mortality of CRC have presented a serious threat against the health and life of people. As the major population affected by CRC, the lifestyle of individuals at a high risk of CRC is attracting increasing attention.

Design: A qualitative evidence synthesis using the Thomas and Harden method and the PRISMA 2020 checklist provided by the EQUATOR network were used.

Data sources: Literature was retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO from the inception to December 2021.

Review methods: Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts and identified the eligible studies. Critical appraisals of each included study were performed. Thematic analysis was used to guide the data synthesis.

Results: The data from nine articles were analysed. Three interpretive themes were extracted that formed an overarching synthesis of the experience with healthy lifestyles among high-risk individuals of CRC. The findings suggested that these individuals with limited awareness of CRC and personal risks lacked sufficient knowledge about the relationship between lifestyle and CRC, and their attitudes and practices towards the role of a healthy lifestyle in CRC prevention were also diversified.

Conclusion: Professionals can potentially provide personalised guidance for healthy lifestyles based on knowledge of prevention, the actual background and social support of individuals at high risk of CRC.

Impact: Considering that knowledge gaps and health beliefs among these individuals are the premise blocking their adoption of a healthy lifestyle, the findings of this review may make contributions to the design and content of public health policy and prevention programs. No patient or public contribution.

Keywords: colorectal cancer; individuals at high risk of colorectal cancer; lifestyle; nursing; qualitative research; thematic analysis.