Evolving perspectives on stool testing for colorectal cancer: a qualitative systematic review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Colorectal cancer is a leading global cause of cancer mortality.
• Early diagnosis through screening methods like the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is crucial.
• Understanding public perception of FIT is essential for improving screening rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers and facilitators influencing the general population's use of FIT for colorectal cancer screening.
• To explore user perspectives on FIT kits based on existing qualitative and mixed-method studies.

Main Methods:

• A systematic qualitative review of 11 articles reporting user views on FIT kits.
• Searched five electronic databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science) up to December 2019.
• Thematic synthesis of data by two independent reviewers after quality appraisal.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: FIT kit factors, patient perception of colorectal cancer screening, and social health support systems.
• Test characteristics and supplementary information significantly impacted FIT utilization.
• User awareness, cancer perspectives, and social/healthcare support influenced FIT kit adoption.

Conclusions:

• FIT screening has enhanced colorectal cancer screening uptake due to its reliability and simplicity.
• Increasing FIT kit uptake requires improving screening accessibility and considering the holistic patient experience.
• Addressing user perceptions and systemic factors is vital for maximizing FIT's public health impact.