Narratives of Colorectal Cancer Among Healthy Population: Contributions for a Preventive Strategy in Argentina

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Studies on knowledge of colorectal cancer (CRC) in healthy population and attitudes towards screening tests are scarce and recent. OBJECTIVE: In order to provide inputs for the communication strategy of its programs, the National Cancer Institute of Argentina commissioned a socio-cultural study, which was to be conducted by Center for Studies of the State and Society. The objective of this work was to focus on socio-cultural aspects related to CRC, so as to identify potential barriers and facilitators to prevention practices in healthy population. METHODS: Two data collection techniques were used: in-depth interview and focus group, applied to men and women aged between 45 and 65 years, without history of CRC. Fieldwork was conducted in four cities of Argentina. RESULTS: Except for the knowledge based on personal experience, there were no clearly defined beliefs about CRC. The term “colorectal” failed to arouse meaning associations and was not spontaneously associated to the intestine. Issues related to the anus were found to be a major barrier for prevention and early detection of CRC. CONCLUSIONS: Confidence in science and technology as well as beliefs about timely detection of the disease are critical aspects. They should be the basis to deconstruct beliefs and reconstruct new concepts, in order to give meaning to preventive health care behaviors.