Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Primary Care Physicians Regarding Colon Cancer in Abha City, Saudi Arabia

Aim of Study: To assess primary care physicians' knowledge and practices regarding screening for colorectal cancer (CC) in Abha City. Methodology: Following a cross-sectional design, this study was conducted at primary health care (PHC) centers in Abha City. It included 104 PHC physicians. The data collection sheet included sociodemographic data of participants and a modified form of the National Survey of Primary Care Physicians' Cancer Screening Recommendations and Practices, Colorectal and Lung Cancer Screening Questionnaire. Results: Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) was the CC screening test most commonly recommended (76%). Cost of screening test is the most influential regarding PHC physicians' recommendations for CC screening (100%). Two-thirds of participants had poor knowledge grade regarding CC screening. The most frequently discussed CC screening test is fecal occult blood test (48.1%). The most frequently recommended test was colonoscopy alone (21.2%) or with FOBT (17.3%). The most frequently practiced item related to CC screening was provision of more than one test option for CC screening (69.2%). Most PHC physicians (81%) had poor practice grade regarding CC screening. Their knowledge grades regarding CC screening were significantly better among female physicians (p<0.001), and those with more experience in PHC (p=0.009). Practice grades were significantly better among males (p<0.001), those with more experience in PHC (p=0.018), and those who attended continuing medical education (CME) on cancer screening (p=0.008). Conclusions: About two-thirds of them have poor knowledge grade regarding colorectal screening. FOBT is the CC screening test most commonly discussed and recommended by PHC physicians. Cost of screening test is the most influential regarding PHC physicians' recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Practice grades are significantly better among those with more experience in PHC and among those who attended CME on cancer screening. Recommendations: Provision of CME sessions to PHC physicians, with special emphasis on methods of screening for early detection of CC. The establishment of fully electronic medical records system at PHC centers. Fully subsidizing and financially supporting screening for CC.