Predictors of Colon Cancer Screening Among the Saudi Population at Primary Healthcare Settings in Riyadh

Amani Alharthy, Mamdouh M. Shubair, Badr F. Al-Khateeb, Lubna Alnaim, Emad Aljohani, Nada Kareem Alenazi, Maha Alamodi Alghamdi, Khadijah Angawi, Rawabi M. Alsayer, Naif M. Alhawiti, Ashraf El-Metwally

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

(1) Background: This study aims to identify the sociodemographic, behavioural, and systemic predictors of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among primary healthcare attendees in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to inform targeted interventions and policy strategies. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and July 2023 across 48 randomly selected primary healthcare centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The target population for this study was adults aged 18 and above attending primary healthcare centers in Riyadh. Multi-stage random sampling was used to recruit participants. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of CRC screening. (3) Results: CRC screening uptake was found to be only 4.2%. Age was a significant predictor, with individuals aged 50–75 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.90, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50–2.42) and those aged 75 years or older (AOR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.01–1.87) being more likely to undergo screening compared to younger individuals. Insurance coverage strongly influenced screening behaviour (AOR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.37–1.96). Smokers were nearly four times more likely to participate in screening than non-smokers (AOR: 3.87, 95% CI: 3.21–4.69), and physical activity was positively associated with screening (AOR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.11–1.82). (4) Conclusions: CRC screening uptake in Riyadh is critically low, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions. Key predictors such as age, insurance coverage, smoking, and physical activity underscore the importance of addressing sociodemographic disparities and promoting health awareness. The findings emphasize the need for culturally tailored educational campaigns, improved healthcare access, and enhanced screening programs to increase uptake.

Original languageEnglish
Article number243
JournalCurrent Oncology
Volume32
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2025

Keywords

  • colorectal cancer
  • predictors
  • Saudi Arabia
  • screening

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