Level of knowledge and perception about periodic health examinations and real action for periodic health examinations of academicians in Çukurova University

Aim: Our aim is to determine level of knowledge and perception about periodic health examinations and real action for periodic health examinations of academicians in Cukurova University and also the impact of sociodemographic factors and health related behaviors on their periodic health examinations behaviours. Material and Methods: Our sample was academic staff of Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Agriculture in Cukurova University. Participants completed sociodemographic questionnaire, questionnaire for knowledge, perception and real action of periodic health examinations. Data analyzed using SPSS statistical analysis program. Results: Of participants, 143 (69.8%) were from Faculty of Medicine, 62 (30.2%) were from Faculty of Agriculture (205). The mean age was 49.5 ± 9.2 years (min: 30 max: 80). Of participants, 56.4%(n=116) were male, 25.3% (n=52) having regular exercise, 38.7% (n=24) having regular diet, 59.5% (n=122) were willing to undergo screening test. Participants who evaluated their overall health status as 'moderate' were more willing to undergo screening test, 12.1% (n=25) didn't believe in screening, 76.0% (n=156) measured body mass index, 82.4% (n=169) blood lipid levels, 94.1% (n=193) blood pressure. Of female participants 52.3% (n=46) had PAP-smear, 48.9% (n=43) mamography. Of 50 years and older respondents, 16.5% (n=17) had colonoscopy in the past 10 years and 19.4% (n=20) had fecal occult blood test in the past year. Conclusion: Knowledge and behavior of periodic health examinations are affected by age, gender and socioeconomic status, perception about periodic health examinations, health concerns and current state of health. Key Words: Academician, Cukurova University, family medicine, periodic health examination.