Trends and gaps in colorectal cancer screening research in the Arab world: A 16-year bibliometric analysis (2007-2023).

Abstract

e15701 Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant public health concern, ranking as the third most common cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. While the Arab world has seen rising CRC incidence rates, there is limited understanding of the trends and patterns in CRC screening research within this region. This study aims to address this gap through a bibliometric analysis of CRC screening research in the Arab world. Methods: We conducted an extensive literature search in Web of Science and Scopus databases to identify relevant publications from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2023. Articles focusing on CRC screening in Arab countries were included, excluding those solely on treatment, palliative care, or disease burden. The metadata was processed, duplicates were removed, and two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, resolving discrepancies with a third reviewer. The final dataset was analyzed using the Bibliometrix Package in R, providing insights into research output, collaboration patterns, and thematic focus. Results: A total of 124 articles were included in the analysis, with an average annual growth rate of 16.5%. Research output increased significantly from 2014 onwards. Saudi Arabia led in scientific production, contributing almost half of the research output, followed by Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt. When adjusted for population size, Qatar was the most productive, likely due to its high-income status and robust research infrastructure. Disparities in research productivity relative to the CRC burden highlight the need for enhanced research capacity and increased investment in CRC research and screening initiatives, particularly in low-resource Arab countries. Three distinct regional clusters of research collaboration were identified. Thematic analysis showed a focus on CRC screening awareness, barriers, and adherence, but a lack of studies on implementation strategies and cost-effectiveness. Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis systematically evaluates CRC screening research trends in the Arab world from 2007 to 2023, identifying critical gaps and disparities. The findings underscore the need for increased investment in CRC research and screening initiatives, providing valuable insights to inform future research priorities, public health policies, collaborative efforts, and the translation of research into practice to improve CRC screening uptake and outcomes in the Arab region. Enhanced regional and international collaborations are essential for establishing more comprehensive and effective CRC screening programs, especially in low-resource Arab countries. Description Results Documents 124 Keywords Plus (ID) 432 Period 2007 – 2023 Annual growth rate (%) 16.49 Average citation per document 7.01 Authors per document 6.34 International co-authorships (%) 22.58