Differences in Colorectal Cancer Risk Knowledge Among Alabamians: Screening Implications

Purpose/Objectives: To explore differences in cancer risk knowledge and colorectal cancer (CRC) knowledge among adults in Alabama.

Research Approach: Telephone interviews were conducted using an 80-item questionnaire that included 14 demographic questions and 26 general questions regarding healthcare quality, sources of health-related information, and cancer fears and risk factors. Also included were 40 questions dealing with CRC perceptions and experiences (asked only of respondents aged 50 years or older).

Setting: A standard random-digit–dialed statewide telephone survey, targeting adult residents of Alabama. Interviews were conducted during about seven weeks in 2012.

Participants: 1,024 participants, including 615 who were aged 50 years or older. Most of the participants identified as Caucasian.

Methodologic Approach: A secondary data analysis using data from a CRC screening survey of Alabama residents conducted in 2012 by the University of South Alabama polling group via telephone.

Findings: Knowledge of general cancer risk factors predicted disagreement with the statement, “There is nothing you can do to avoid getting cancer,” and disagreement with the statement, “Only people with signs or symptoms should be screened for CRC.” Binary logistic regression showed that those higher in CRC risk knowledge were more likely to have been screened for CRC.

Conclusions: Knowledge of general cancer risk factors may increase self-efficacy. In addition, individuals with increased knowledge of colorectal cancer risk factors were more likely to participate in CRC screening.

Interpretation: Nurses play an instrumental role in addressing CRC, a preventable and treatable cancer. An opportunity exists for nurses and other healthcare providers to develop culturally appropriate educational interventions to increase knowledge related to CRC, risk factors, and screening, particularly among those who are at increased risk. This education needs to occur in clinical practice and within the community.