The effect of knowledge and health beliefs about colorectal cancer on screening behaviour

Aims and objectives To determine the effect of the knowledge and health beliefs of individuals about colorectal cancer on their screening behaviour. Background Colorectal cancer ranks third among the most common cancers both worldwide and in Turkey. Colorectal cancer plays an important role in cancer mortality but can be prevented by promoting healthy behaviour and participation in early screening programmes. Design This descriptive study was completed with 114 women and 121 men. Methods The study data were collected using the ‘Data collection form' and ‘Health Belief Model Scale for Protection from Colorectal Cancer'. Potential risk factors were investigated using logistic regression analyses. The AGREE checklist was completed. Results The colorectal cancer screening tests were known by 23.0% of the subjects and 17% had undergone one of these tests. The score medians obtained from the confidence‐benefit subscale of Health Belief Model Scale for Protection from Colorectal Cancer were found to be significantly higher in those who had undergone colorectal cancer screening. Logistic regression analysis revealed that having knowledge of the relevant tests was associated with undergoing colorectal cancer screening. Conclusions Having knowledge on colorectal cancer screening tests increases the relevant confidence‐benefit perception regarding the tests and the behaviour of participating in screening programmes. Regular training on colorectal cancer and early diagnosis should therefore be provided by healthcare professionals to both women and men aged 50–70 years to increase the rate of undergoing early screening tests. Relevance to clinical practice Increasing the rate of early screening is among the responsibilities of health workers working in primary health centres. Therefore, problems that prevent individuals from participating in these programmes need to be identified. In this way, health workers will develop suggestions and initiatives that change the individual's health beliefs and increase motivation.