Evaluating the implementation of colorectal cancer screening practices at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Riyadh.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem in Saudi Arabia, where there is currently no widespread CRC screening program. This study aimed to assess the implementation of CRC screening within medical practices at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, targeting beneficiaries aged 50-75 years. A retrospective chart review and cross-sectional analysis were conducted between January and December 2022 for an age group from 50 to 75 years. Frequency and percentages were used to display categorical variables. The Chi-square test and independent <i>t</i>-test were used to assess the association between the variables. Out of the 296 patients between the ages of 50 and 75 years, less than half were men (49%). The average age of the participants was 61.5 years, ranging from 56 to 69. During the research, the incidence of CRC among patients was found to be 8.1%. Most patients had negative FOBT tests (73%), while about 27% tested positive, and approximately 23% underwent colonoscopy. Patients with a FOBT test positive tended to be older than those with a negative result. This study found that the utilization of CRC screening is not fully maximized at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City. It highlights the importance of raising awareness and promoting adherence to screening guidelines for individuals between the ages of 50 and 75 years. Additional research is necessary to identify the factors that hinder or facilitate CRC screening in this context to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of various screening methods.