Awareness of colorectal cancer screening and its associated risk factors among adults attending outpatient clinics in regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam.
| dc.contributor.author | Mziray, Amir N. | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-02-12T09:44:11Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-02-12T09:44:11Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2024 | |
| dc.description | A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Medicine in general surgery of Kairuki university. | |
| dc.description.abstract | Background: Colorectal cancer screening aims to detect early signs of colorectal cancer before symptoms develop, increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival. Screening methods include colonoscopy, and stool-based tests like fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), which detect blood in the stool. Screening guidelines vary by country, but it is generally recommended to start regular screenings around age 40 for the average-risk individuals. However, those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need earlier or more frequent screening. Regular and early screening can significantly reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality by detecting and removing precancerous polyps or detecting cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Objective: To assess colorectal cancer (CRC) awareness, risk factors and screening utilizing FOBT and colonoscopy among participants in regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam. Methodology: A total of 150 participants were recruited for the study. FOBT was done to all participants, with positive cases undergoing further diagnostic interventions, including stool analysis, H. pylori antigen testing, and endoscopic interventions. Socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and awareness about CRC were assessed through questionnaires. Risk assessment for CRC was conducted based on dietary habits and medical history. Results: Of the 150 participants, 73.3% tested negative and 26.67% tested positive for FOBT. Further investigations revealed hookworm ova 12.5% (n=5/40) and H. pylori infection 22.5% (n=9/40) among FOBT positive cases. Colonoscopy identified normal results in 42.86% (n=15/35) and different pathologies in 57.14% (n=20/35), including 25.0% (n=5/20) diagnosed with CRC, overall prevalence of CRC among patients attending surgical outpatient clinics in regional referral hospitals was found to be 3.45. Socio-demographic analysis revealed limited awareness and knowledge about CRC, with notable disparities between positive and negative CRC cases. Conclusion: CRC screening using FOBT demonstrated significant number of positive cases, highlighting the need for improved awareness and education about CRC and its risk factors. Comprehensive screening programs, coupled with increased knowledge dissemination, are crucial for early detection and prevention of CRC in Tanzania. Recommendation: In developing countries where resources may be limited, a simple recommendation for colorectal cancer prevention and early detection would be to prioritize public health education campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening. Encouraging individuals to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing consumption of processed foods and red meats, promoting physical activity and discouraging tobacco use in order to reduce risk of CRC. Emphasizing the significance of early detection through low-cost screening methods such as FOBT, and ensuring access to these tests through community health centers or outreach programs, can make a significant impact on reducing the burden of colorectal cancer in resource-limited settings. | |
| dc.identifier.citation | Mziray, Amir N., 2024. Awareness of colorectal cancer screening and its associated risk factors among adults attending outpatient clinics in regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam. Kairuki University | |
| dc.identifier.uri | http://kuir.ku.ac.tz:4000/handle/123456789/1472 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Kairuki University | |
| dc.subject | cancer screening | |
| dc.subject | cancer treatment | |
| dc.subject | colorectal cancer | |
| dc.title | Awareness of colorectal cancer screening and its associated risk factors among adults attending outpatient clinics in regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam. | |
| dc.type | Thesis |