EFFECT OF AN INTERVENTION STUDY TO IMPROVE EARLY-STAGE COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING AMONG ZAGAZIG UNIVERSITY EMPLOYEES: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN.
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide. The adoption of colon cancer screening is strongly influenced by public awareness that ailment colon cancer screening is closely related to Egyptian sustainable development goals for 2030.
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an intervention study to improve early-stage colorectal cancer screening among Zagazig University employees.
Patient and methods: A quasi-experimental design was utilized and carried out at Zagazig University included 11 faculty members and two administrative buildings. A total of 118 employees were chosen by a systematic random sampling technique from the study settings. A self-administered questionnaire in four parts was utilized to assess employees' knowledge concerning colorectal cancer incidence, colorectal cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening methods. Additionally, the questionnaire evaluated employees' attitudes and practices related to colorectal cancer and identified barriers related to colorectal cancer screening.
Results: The intervention program led to a significant improvement (p≤ 0.001) of patients who underwent colorectal cancer tests. Furthermore, the overall knowledge level was initially unsatisfactory among the studied employees and improved to an impressive level post-intervention. Moreover, a remarkable increase in colorectal cancer preventive behaviors within the study population was observed post-intervention compared with pre-intervention. Similarly, the overall positive attitude increased post-intervention compared to that pre-intervention. The post-intervention percentages revealed a decrease in various factors contributing to reluctance to undergo colonoscopy, with several factors showing highly significant differences.
Conclusion: The intervention study yielded positive outcomes, effectively improving early-stage CRC screening. It is recommended that Zagazig University employees initiate and sustain educational campaigns aimed at raising awareness about colorectal cancer.
