Factors triggering medical consultation for symptoms of colorectal cancer and perceptions surrounding diagnosis.

This study aims to find out how the presenting symptoms of colorectal cancer are interpreted by those who get them, to identify the main triggering factors that lead someone with colorectal cancer symptoms to consult a doctor, and to describe how those affected perceive the process of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. It is a qualitative study performed within the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism and from a gender perspective. Grounded theory has been used for the analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Twelve individuals with colorectal cancer - seven men and five women - were interviewed. At first, both the men and women attributed their symptoms to trivial causes. Changes in symptoms or the persistence of symptoms trigger medical consultation. Close relatives, especially the closest female family members, can trigger medical consultation, particularly among men. The women said nothing to their families until they had already gone to the doctor. Knowledge about colorectal cancer could be a factor triggering medical consultation. The time between consulting the family doctor and seeing a specialist feels drawn out. Gender-related differences have been observed in respect to help-seeking in colorectal cancer. Health education programmes focusing on knowledge about cancer are needed.