Colon Cancer General Knowledge, Attitude and Awareness Channels: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background

Colon cancer is one of the most widespread cancers in Jordan. Screening of colon cancer aids in reducing its incidence and mortality rates. Awareness of colon cancer and its screening tools has a fundamental role in increasing screening participation. The information about Jordanians' awareness of colon cancer screening is inadequate.

Objective

This study aims to assess the Jordanian population's level of awareness about colon cancer, including basic knowledge, screening tools, attitudes toward early screening, and preferred methods for spreading awareness.

Methods

This is an analytical cross-sectional study. The study was conducted using both online and paper-based validated, and reliable questionnaires which were distributed throughout the entire community. Knowledge scores (KS range −10 to +10) and attitude scores (AS range −8 to +8) were calculated. Univariate analysis and logistic regression model were carried out. The nominal-by-nominal strength was also calculated.

Results

Information was collected from 1050 participants aged 18 to 70 years. with 63.6% being female responders. Participants with negative knowledge scores ‘'KS ≤ zero” were greater than good knowledge scores ‘'KS > 4 out of 10” (25.8% vs 11.4%). age, gender, insurance, working in the medical field, education, monthly income, smoking, and family history of cancer showed statistically significant associations with KS (p < 0.005, Cramer's V > 0.1). The strongest predictor for KS was the level of education (the postgraduate group showed OR = 4.64, p = 0.001, 95% CI = 1.96–11.0). Most participants (87.6%) had a positive attitude toward screening (AS ≥ 1). There were no associations between knowledge and attitude scores (p > 0.05). Unlike newspapers, social media was perceived as the most effective (70%) way to education.

Conclusion

One-quarter of the population is in crucial need for proper education, especially among young groups. This study forms a good basis and provides a solid foundation for health authorities to implement the necessary measures to address this issue.