ROLE OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS IN COLORECTAL CANCER DETECTION AND PREVENTION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Anas Salem Alnasiri*, Faisal Saleh Khalifah Alkhalifah, Radhi Nasser S Alkubaidan, Rakan Mohammed Ahmed Alhuwaydi, Saleh Mohammed saleh Alotaibi, Ahmed Khalid Ahmed Aljabbab, Mohammed Abdullah Marzouq Alhadi, Muath Mohammed S AlZunaydi and Mamdouh Madallah A Alsirhani

Objectives: To investigate literature on the role of family physicians (FPs) related to colorectal cancer (CRC) detection and prevention.

Methods: A total of 513 pertinent publications were found after a comprehensive search across four databases. 46 full-text publications were examined after duplicates were eliminated using Rayyan QCRI and relevance was checked; six studies finally satisfied the requirements for inclusion.

Results: We included six studies with a total of 15,601 participants and more than half of them 9104 (58.4%) were females. The results indicate that PCPs play a pivotal role in CRC screening through counseling, patient education, and the use of diverse screening tools. Effective communication and systematic patient education were found to enhance screening adherence. However, barriers such as insufficient training, lack of resources, and low screening rates in some regions were noted. Availability of colonoscopies and fecal occult blood tests significantly improved screening practices. Regular patient-physician interactions were associated with higher screening rates, highlighting the importance of continuity of care. Addressing gaps in training and resources could further optimize CRCS outcomes.

Conclusion: FPs are pivotal in enhancing CRC screening and prevention through patient education, counseling, and offering diverse screening options. Addressing barriers like inadequate training, resource limitations, and inconsistent practices is essential for improving outcomes. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to assess the impact of FPs interventions and develop tailored strategies to overcome systemic challenges. Strengthening primary care systems to support FPs can significantly reduce CRC incidence and mortality.