[Knowledge, adherence and perceptions about colorectal cancer screening in primary and secondary school teachers in Carcarañá].

Introduction: This study describes the knowledge and perceptions regarding colorectal cancer screening (CRC) in a population of teachers from primary and secondary schools in Carcarañá, Santa Fe. The proportion of participants who underwent the screening is described, as well as the facilitating factors and barriers that could affect test adherence.

Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out through a self-administered survey of the population of teachers aged 50 or over from all primary and secondary schools in the city.

Results: 96 teachers, 87 women (90.6%) and 9 men (9.4%) were surveyed. Average age: 53.2 ± 2.5 years. 66.7% knew about CRC screening. However, only 13.5% knew the recommended time to start performing these tests. 28.1% had adhered to some of the screening tests. 94.8% agreed that CRC has a greater chance of cure if it is discovered early, and 92.7% reported that screening is part of good health care. .

Conclusion: The positive perception regarding screening is not consistent with adherence to screening. Lack of knowledge, lack of information and medical indication are the most important barriers to adherence. The main facilitating factor was the existence of a family history of CRC. New research that addresses this issue would be necessary in order to develop strategies aimed at modifying these barriers and reducing mortality from this neoplasm