Colorectal cancer and its prevention: prevalence of beliefs, attitudes, intentions and behaviour

Abstract

There is so far only limited evidence from randomised controlled trials that screening for colorectal cancer using the faecal occult blood test produces significant mortality reductions in screened groups, but there is considerable activity and interest in the use of such screening in Australia. Beliefs, attitudes, intentions and behaviour in relation to colorectal cancer and screening were examined among participants 40 years and older (n = 1776) who took part in a representative population survey. While there were high levels of awareness of faecal occult blood test screening, most respondents had not had a test, nor did they intend to take a test in the future. Important determinants of participation in screening were a family history of colorectal cancer, a belief that bowel cancer can be cured if detected at an early stage, a perception of personal susceptibility to bowel cancer and an acceptance of the technique. Factors such as these are likely to influence the success of any future screening program in Australia.