CANCER PREVENTION IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE: EVALUATING PATIENT AWARENESS AND ADHERENCE TO GUIDELINES

Authors

  • Ashraf Maghrabi, Ghader Jamjoum, Rahil Abdulaziz Aboareef, Khalid Atyah Alharbi, Mohammed Balhareth, Rawan Mohammed Awadh, Khalid Almutawa, Ismail Suqati, Shahad Mohsen, Sarah Mohammed Al bishr, Razan Jadid Alenazi, Khames T. Alzahrani Author

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are at a greater risk of acquiring cancer; accordingly, cancer prevention and screening may enhance detection. According to the WHO, cancer is the second biggest cause of mortality, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) in low-resource settings rely heavily on awareness of its symptoms. Objective: This study aimed to assess public awareness about colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and the barriers that prevent Saudi individuals from undergoing CRC screening. Methodology: This cross-sectional survey between August 2023 and February 2024 in Saudi Arabia. The study recruit volunteers through social media platforms such as Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook, as well as in-person meetings. Saudi individuals with IBD, both male and female, aged 18 to 60, who agree to participate and complete questionnaires are eligible for participation. Non-IBD patients are excluded, as are those under 18 and above 60. The minimum target sample size of 384 was calculated using a process based on prevalence estimation, 95% confidence, and 5% tolerable error. Results: This study aimed to evaluate patient awareness and adherence to colorectal cancer prevention guidelines among individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Key findings revealed moderate to low awareness levels among most participants, with only 10% demonstrating high awareness of disease prevention and management. Significant gaps were identified in understanding risk factors like advanced age and the importance of early detection, with nearly half of respondents doubting early detection’s feasibility. Adherence to preventive measures was similarly concerning, with 58.4% exhibiting low adherence to recommended checkups. Awareness and adherence levels correlated significantly with factors such as age, physical activity, and family cancer history. Conclusion: This study shows the critical need for enhanced awareness and adherence to cancer prevention guidelines among individuals with IBD in Saudi Arabia. The observed gaps in knowledge and screening behaviors highlight the importance of targeted educational initiatives and improved communication strategies within healthcare settings.

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Published

2025-01-26

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How to Cite

CANCER PREVENTION IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE: EVALUATING PATIENT AWARENESS AND ADHERENCE TO GUIDELINES. (2025). CAHIERS MAGELLANES-NS, 1105-1123. https://magellanes.com/index.php/CMN/article/view/1286