AWARENESS OF SYMPTOMS, RISK FACTORS AND COMMON SCREENING TESTS OF COLORECTAL CANCER AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTERS, BAGHDAD CITY, 2020

Background: Awareness of colorectal cancer symptoms, risk factors and screening may support early detection and informed screening decisions. Objective: To assess awareness, perceived screening barriers and future screening intentions among primary health care attendees in Baghdad. Methods: A cross-sectional study recruited a convenience sample of 375 adults aged 30 years or older at five primary health care centers between April and September 2020. Interviewer-administered questionnaires assessed symptoms, risk factors and screening. Awareness scores were categorized as poor, fair or good. Associations were examined using chi-square tests. Results: Good awareness of symptoms and risk factors was recorded in 36 (9.6%) and 96 (25.6%) participants, respectively. Awareness levels were associated with age, sex and socioeconomic status. None reported previous screening. Overall, 269 (71.7%) had not heard of screening, and 87 (23.2%) recognized its role in early detection. Among 102 participants aged 50 years or older, lack of physician recommendation was the most frequently reported barrier (36; 35.3%). After a brief explanation, 240 (64.0%) expressed willingness to undergo screening while asymptomatic; 135 (56.3%) of these preferred stool testing. Conclusion: Awareness was limited in this clinic sample. Physician-led education and discussion of screening barriers may help address these gaps. Stated willingness after explanation should not be equated with subsequent screening uptake.