Public awareness and knowledge of colorectal cancer and screening: insights from a study based in Georgia, Caucasus region

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major public health challenge in terms of prevention and early detection. This study evaluates awareness and knowledge of CRC and its screening program in the urban population of Tbilisi, Georgia, aiming to provide valuable insights for primary care practitioners and physicians worldwide. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 385 participants aged 18 and above conducted using CAM (Colorectal awareness measure) tool at a primary care center. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA tests. Results: The mean total knowledge score was 6.93 out of 19 (SD±4.54). Knowledge scores for symptoms and risk factors were 5.29 out of 9 (SD±2.25) and 3.74 out of 10 (SD±2.44), respectively. A significant 82.6% of participants lacked confidence in identifying CRC warning signs. Higher CRC awareness was correlated with tertiary education, younger age (31-40 years), and female gender. Among those aged 40 and above, 53.1% were aware of the free screening program, but only 16% correctly identified the screening initiation age. Conclusions: Public awareness of CRC and its screening program in Georgia is insufficient. Improved awareness campaigns are needed to address these gaps.