Many Filipinos lack full awareness of colorectal cancer, its risk factors, and screening options

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and deadliest malignancies in the Philippines. However, it can be prevented or treated effectively when detected early through screening. This research examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Filipinos regarding CRC screening to understand why participation rates are low and how to improve them. It is the first study in the Philippines to describe the knowledge of Filipinos on the prognosis of CRC and the utility of its screening.

The study found that many people in the community are not fully aware of CRC and its risk factors. For example, many did not know that screening tests like fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and colonoscopies are available and can detect CRC before symptoms appear. Despite this, participants generally had a positive attitude toward the benefits of screening. Most were willing to participate in government-led screening programs but barriers such as cost, lack of awareness, and fear of the procedure discouraged many from following through.

This research underscores the urgent need to strengthen CRC screening in the Philippines, where participation rates remain low despite the proven effectiveness of tests such as FOBT and colonoscopy in detecting precancerous conditions and early-stage disease, thereby improving survival outcomes.

It further highlights the importance of sustained educational campaigns and stronger government support to address identified barriers. The findings offer valuable guidance for community organizers and government agencies, both national and local, in designing targeted educational campaigns and support programs to promote CRC screening at the grassroots level.

By increasing awareness, correcting misconceptions, and improving the accessibility and affordability of screening services, more Filipinos may be encouraged to undergo timely screening. In turn, this can lead to earlier detection or prevention of CRC, ultimately reducing its burden and improving population health outcomes nationwide.

Authors: Joseff Karl U. Fernandez (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Martin Augustine B. Borlongan (School of Statistics, University of the Philippines Diliman), Michael Anthony A. Baliton (University of Colorado School of Medicine), Dennis L. Sacdalan (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Florge Francis A. Sy (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Analigaya R. Agoncillo (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Carl Lawrence C. Arenos (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Vincent F. Tatoy (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Timothy Joseph S. Uy (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila), Isabela Andrea L. Reveldez (University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital) and Steven Johnson L. Lim (Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila)

Read the full paper: https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.8608