Evaluation of Knowledge and Attitude Towards Risk Factors and Screening Methods of Colon Cancer Among the First-Degree Relatives of Cancer Patients Referred to Oncology Clinics: Shariati Hospital, Tehran

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of death in the world. Primary prevention of CRC is important, However even in people involved with cancer, there is insufficient knowledge of cancer screening. Methods: in a comparative method two groups of people over 40 years of age who had been referred to the oncology clinics of Shariati Hospital were studied. Group 1: First-degree relatives of people with CRC. Group 2: Firstdegree relatives of people with other cancers. The subjects were selected via random sampling. Results: 300 people were included in this study. None of the subjects who had a family history of nonCRC (control group) have never been screened for this cancer, but 15 (10%) of those who had a history of CRC in the firstdegree relatives underwent screening in the past. Conclusion: People with a family history of colorectal cancer have more been more aware of necessity for CRC screening than those without a family history, however this knowledge has not led to partake in any screening method.