In Hong Kong, Colorectal cancer ranks second in both cancer incidence and mortality. The government-subsidized population-based CRC screening program (the Program) was launched for asymptomatic individuals aged 50-75 years to undergo biennial FIT screenings. A subsidized follow-up colonoscopy is offered to participants with positive FIT results. Participants are advised to repeat the FIT screening 2 years after receiving a negative result. An automated noninteractive short message service (SMS) text reminder, used by the Program as standard care (SC), is delivered to participants who are due for repeat FIT. According to unpublished data, despite SC, only 34% of participants adhere to biennial repeat FIT in the CRC screening program. Nonadherence to repeat FIT screening is caused by forgetfulness and is associated with an individual's psychological health behaviour.
50-75 years old
already enrolled in the Program with negative FIT results in 2022
eligible for the Program inclusion and due for repeat FIT screening in 2024
either the participants themselves or their family members / caregivers have access to and agree to be contacted via WhatsApp
who have incomplete conversations with the chatbot, lack of access to WhatsApp, or are unable to provide informed consent will be excluded