A recent study published in the journal CANCER by Wiley has shown that a community awareness campaign in Nigeria led to improved early detection of colorectal cancer. The study focused on regions with limited resources, where most cases are diagnosed too late for effective treatment.
Researchers conducted a six-month campaign using bilingual flyers, posters, banners, radio jingles, and social media to educate the public about colorectal cancer symptoms and risk factors. These materials were shared at community events, clinics, and religious institutions.
Out of 497 participants, 322 completed surveys before and after the campaign. Awareness of colorectal cancer rose from 16.8% before the campaign to 96.9% after it. Knowledge about risk factors and symptoms also increased significantly.
Health care workers and patient navigators referred individuals showing possible signs of colorectal cancer to an Early Diagnosis Clinic. Of 329 people who visited the clinic, 168 (51.1%) had risk factors such as unexplained changes in bowel habits or a family history of colorectal cancer. Among these individuals, 116 (73%) underwent colonoscopy.
Colorectal cancer was diagnosed in four patients (3.4%), with two cases detected at stage 0, one at stage II, and one at stage III disease. Precancerous polyps were found in 11% of those who received colonoscopies.
"That's according to a study published by Wiley online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society."
