Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The early detection and removal of premalignant polyps with the use of tests such as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and colonoscopy can decrease CRC morbidity and mortality. The use of these tests is very low, especially among those most at risk – people aged 50 or older. This cross-sectional study was conducted among employees of a large midwestern pharmaceutical company offering a unique colon cancer screening program. Randomly selected employees aged 50 or older were surveyed by mail about their beliefs, knowledge, communication with providers and past FOBT and colonoscopy use. The response rate was 51% (N=213) and all instruments had good reliability and validity scores. Independent variables were derived from the Health Belief and PRECEDE-PROCEED Models. Binomial logistic regression modeling identified significant predictors of FOBT compliance as provider recommendation (OR=5.98,CI 1.85-19.38), age (OR=1.33,CI 1.10-1.60), and barriers (OR=0.13, CI 0.03-0.55). Significant predictors of colonoscopy utilization were provider recommendation (OR=5.02, 2.02-12.50), barriers (OR=0.29, CI 0.11-0.78), benefits (OR=3.06, CI 1.16-8.09), self-efficacy (OR=3.38, CI 1.22-9.35), knowledge (OR=3.85, CI 1.50-9.90), fear (OR=2.60, CI 1.02-6.68), and education (OR=0.10, CI 0.12–0.86). Although these results cannot be generalized to a community-based population, it gives researchers insight as to the factors that may influence CRC screening behavior.
Learning Objectives: Objectives: 1) Identify predictors of past FOBT use among average-risk people aged 50 and older; 2) Identify predictors of past colonoscopy use in a similar sample.
Keywords: Cancer Screening, Health Behavior
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.