Abstract
Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health problem. It is the third most diagnosed common tumour and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early screening has been shown to decrease the incidence of CRC cancer and decrease mortality. In Saudi Arabia (SA), there is no national policy for CRC screening despite the growing incidence of the disease. This study investigated the knowledge of risk factors for CRC, recommendations for screening, and attitudes and barriers towards screening among medical students.
Methods
Data was collected using a self-administered valid and reliable questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and barriers measurements completed by 581 medical students from two Saudi schools. Frequencies and mean scores of knowledge and attitude were determined. The likelihood of students having adequate knowledge of CRC risk factors and screening modalities was estimated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Results
Knowledge of the risk factors for CRC and screening modalities, and attitude towards screening were poor in 52.47 and 57.83% of the surveyed medical students; respectively. Higher level of medical education (OR = 3.23; 95% CI: 2.01–5.18) and a positive attitude towards CRC screening (OR = 2.74; 95% CI: 1.86–4.03) were independent predictors of higher knowledge levels. Lack of awareness about CRC and screening modalities among patients, and shortage of specialized healthcare providers were barriers independently associated with low knowledge levels.
Conclusions
Saudi medical students have limited knowledge of CRC risk factors of and a poor attitude towards CRC screening. These results contribute to our understanding of missed teaching opportunities in Saudi medical schools and suggest intervening at the medical school, clinical practice, and population levels to increase CRC screening practices.
Key Questions
How knowledgeable are Saudi medical students about colorectal cancer screening?
Saudi medical students have limited knowledge about colorectal cancer screening methods. Over half of the surveyed students showed poor knowledge of risk factors and screening modalities.
What factors influence medical students' knowledge of colorectal cancer?
Higher years of medical education and a positive attitude towards colorectal cancer screening are associated with better knowledge. Students in their 5th and 6th years showed significantly higher knowledge levels.
What barriers to colorectal cancer screening do medical students identify?
Students reported patient-related barriers such as fear of cancer diagnosis, embarrassment, and lack of symptoms. They also identified system-related barriers like high costs, lack of insurance coverage, and shortage of trained healthcare providers.
How do Saudi medical students view different colorectal cancer screening methods?
Most students (60.76%) consider colonoscopy as the most effective screening method. Only 30% view fecal occult blood tests as very effective. Many students underestimate the effectiveness of other screening methods.
What improvements are needed in medical education regarding colorectal cancer?
The study suggests a need for uniform curricular requirements on colorectal cancer screening in medical schools. Early and adequate training on screening methods and guidelines is recommended to improve future physicians' knowledge and practices.
