Promotion of Health Literacy in a Colorectal Cancer Screening

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Colorectal cancer is the 4th deadliest cancer in the world. Colorectal Cancer Screening (CRCS) allows to an increase in the associated overall survival. Biannual fecal immunochemical screening has been shown to be more cost-effective than colonoscopy. Health Literacy (HL), as a mediator in decision-making, can be fundamental in adhering to this screening. The objective is to map the interventions that promote Health Literacy within the scope of CCR screening. METHODS: Scoping review, following the methodology recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Using the Participants, Concept and Context (PCC) strategy, participants were defined as people aged between 50-75 years; as context, the community, and as concepts of Health Literacy and CRCS. Five studies were included in the scoping review. RESULTS: In the studies included in the review, educational activities aimed at screening were carried out. It was also found increasing the use of digital media promotes Health Literacy. These activities can result in an increase in adherence to this screening. The study by Temucin & Nahcivan (2020) highlights the decisive role of nurses in education and counseling on CRCS. These interventions result in greater empowerment of populations and consequent decision-making related to the CRCS. CONCLUSIONS: It was found that there are still few studies that relate the levels of Health Literacy and adherence to CRCS. However, interventions considering HL levels can result in more knowledge, awareness, and adherence to CRCS. KEY MESSAGES: • Health Literacy interventions that empower populations in the decision-making related to the Colorectal Cancer Screening. • Health Literacy interventions through digital media increase adherence to Colorectal Cancer Screening.