Colonoscopy Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme in Southern Iraq: Challenges, Knowledge Gaps and Future Potential

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening practices in Iraq are poorly documented.
• There is no established national Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP) in Iraq, with screening occurring opportunistically.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current CRC screening practices and barriers in Basra, Iraq.
• To explore the feasibility of introducing a BCSP in Basra, leveraging UK expertise.
• To assess public awareness and knowledge of CRC screening and its symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Conducted pre-visit online surveys with 50 healthcare providers.
• Administered a public survey to 350 individuals to gauge knowledge and perceived barriers.
• Organized a multidisciplinary meeting and training workshop for colonoscopists in Basra.

Main Results:

• Over 50% of the public surveyed were unfamiliar with the concept of a BCSP.
• Less than 25% of participants recognized key 'red flag' symptoms of bowel cancer.
• Training workshops received positive feedback, but identified a need for more resources.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in public awareness and healthcare provider training regarding CRC screening in Basra.
• Barriers to implementing a BCSP include lack of awareness and insufficient training resources.
• Future collaboration is essential to establish a BCSP centre in Basra.