Cancer Screening Tests and Associated Factors in Patients with Breast, Cervical, and Colorectal Cancer

Objective: To evaluate cancer screening behaviors among patients diagnosed with breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer and identify factors influencing screening participation.Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 470 patients diagnosed with breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer at a hospital in Istanbul between June and December 2021. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a researcher-developed questionnaire based on the literature. Results: Most participants were women, with variations in age, marital status, and education levels. Screening rates were 55% for breast cancer, 57% for cervical cancer, and 33% for colorectal cancer, with statistically significant differences across cancer types. Fears of cancer and family history were positively associated with screening uptake. Conclusion: Screening participation was higher for breast and cervical cancer than for colorectal cancer. Regular visits to family physicians, fear of cancer, family history, and healthcare professional recommendations were key determinants of screening behavior. Enhancing the role of primary care and increasing public awareness may improve early cancer detection.