Colorectal cancer outcomes are significantly influenced by the mode of presentation: Results of an England-wide population study assessing the impact of referral pathways on oncological outcomes.

Abstract

Background: Despite the knowledge that the stage of colorectal cancer (CRC) at the time of diagnosis has a dramatic effect on survival, England has one of the lowest early detection and survival rates from CRC compared to other high-income countries. To improve early detection in asymptomatic individuals and initiate prompt referral and treatment in symptomatic patients, the UK has a national bowel cancer screening programme (BCSP) and an urgent suspected cancer referral system called the two-week wait outpatient clinic.