Knowledge and belief of fecal occult blood screening: A systematic review

Abstract Introduction Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with a high incidence and mortality rate. Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is effective in the prevention of CRC. Objective This study aimed to assess knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT‐based screening. Methods This study used PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE Complete, and Web of Science to search for articles. Original full‐text studies in English language focusing on knowledge and beliefs of FOBT screening were included. Results A total of 32 articles were included. This study indicated that the population in most studies had inadequate knowledge and lacked beliefs toward FOBT‐based screening. Most of the extracted studies showed that less than half of the participants had heard of FOBT‐based screening. Six studies showed that less than 50% of participants had knowledge of FOBT age. Three studies found that less than 40% of participants were aware of the screening interval. Some participants perceived the benefits of FOBT‐based screening, while others perceived many barriers to the test. Conclusion Participants’ knowledge and belief in FOBT‐based screening were insufficient. This review highlights the importance of educational programs to increase knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT‐based screening. It is important to include FOBT‐based screening in the health care system to promote the secondary prevention of CRC.