Population-based Colorectal Cancer Screening Program Research Articles

Evaluation of the “Burgenland PREvention trial of colorectal cancer Disease with ImmunologiCal Testing” (B-PREDICT)—a population-based colorectal cancer screening program

BackgroundThe colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program B-PREDICT is a population based invited two stage screening project using a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) for initial screening followed by a colonoscopy for those with a positive FIT. B-PREDICT was compared with the opportunistic screening colonoscopy (OPP-COL), performed in course of the nationwide screening program.MethodsWithin B-PREDICT all residents of the Austrian federal state Burgenland, aged between 40 and 80 are annually invited to FIT testing. All individuals who underwent initial colonoscopy in Burgenland between 01/2003 and 12/2014, were included in this study. Individuals from the FIT-triggered invited screening program B-PREDICT were compared with those from the non-FIT triggered OPP-COL.Results15 133 individuals from B-PREDICT were compared to 10 045 individuals with OPP-COL. CRC detection rates were 1.34% (CI-95%, [1.15; 1.52]) in B-PREDICT compared to 0.54% in OPP-COL (95%-CI, [0.39; 0.68] p < 0.001). The decrease in the age standardized incidence rates of CRC was more pronounced in the population screened with FIT than in the general population screened with colonoscopy. Changes in incidence rates per year were -4.4% (95%-CI, [-5.1; -3.7]) vs. -1.8% (95%-CI, [-1.9; -1.6] p < 0.001).ConclusionsB-PREDICT shows a two-fold higher detection rate of CRC as well as HRA compared to OPP-COL.

Association between Endoscopist Volume and Interval Cancers after Colonoscopy: Results from the National Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Korea.

The rate of interval colorectal cancer (iCRC) is now accepted as a key performance indicator of organized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs. We aimed to examine the association between endoscopist volumes and the rate of iCRC among individuals with a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) within a nationwide population-based CRC screening program. Individuals aged ≥50 years who underwent colonoscopy after a positive FIT from January 1, 2019 until December 31, 2020 in the Korean National Cancer Screening Program (KNCSP) were enrolled. We converted the data into per-endoscopist screening results, calculated the iCRC rates per endoscopist, and compared them to the previous year's annual volume that was divided into five groups (V1, 1-9; V2, 10-29; V3, 30-59; V4, 60-119; V5, ≥120). A total of 10,412 endoscopists performed 216,907 colonoscopies. Overall, the average rate of iCRC per endoscopist was 8.46 per 1,000 examinations. Compared with the group with the highest volume (V5 group), the rate of iCRC was 2.21 times higher in the V1 group. Similar trends were observed in the other groups (V2: Relative risks [RR], 2.15; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.57-2.94; V3: RR, 1.56, 95% CI, 1.15-2.13; V4: RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.83-1.67). The findings emphasize that endoscopists with lower procedure volumes have higher risks of interval cancer being missed or undetected. To maximize the preventative impact of colonoscopy for colorectal cancer, this issue should be addressed by monitoring endoscopist volumes and variations in performances.

Association between time to colonoscopy after positive fecal testing and colorectal cancer outcomes in Alberta, Canada.

To quantify the associations between time to colonoscopy after a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT+) and colorectal cancer (CRC)-related outcomes in the context of a provincial, population-based CRC screening program. Population-based, retrospective cohort study in Alberta, Canada, including Albertans aged 50-74 with at least one FIT+ in 2014-2017. Study outcomes were CRC diagnosis after a FIT+ and a diagnostic follow-up colonoscopy in 2014-2019 and CRC stage at diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the relative risk of any CRC or advanced-stage CRC. Results were presented as crude odds ratio (OR) and adjusted OR (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Of the 787,967 participants who had a FIT, 63,232 (8%) had a FIT+ and met the study's eligibility criteria. The risk of any CRC or advanced-stage CRC stayed high and was relatively consistent for follow-up colonoscopies performed within 1-12 months of the FIT+. After 12 months, the risk of CRC was considerably higher, particularly for advanced-stage CRC. The OR and aOR for any CRC were 1.40 (95% CI: 1.13-1.73; p < 0.05) and 1.20 (95% CI: 0.96-1.49), respectively, and the OR and aOR for advanced-stage CRC were 1.42 (95% CI: 0.98-2.08) and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.59-1.32), respectively, for colonoscopy follow-up within 12-18 months versus 1-2 months. For Albertans who used FIT for CRC screening, a longer time interval between a FIT+ and follow-up colonoscopy, particularly over 12 months, increases the risk of having CRC and decreases the effectiveness of CRC screening programs.

Routine Fecal Occult Blood Screening and Colorectal Cancer Mortality in Sweden

Population-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs are implemented worldwide, but there are difficulties evaluating their effectiveness. The magnitude of routine CRC screening effectiveness regarding cancer-specific mortality is unclear. To evaluate cancer-specific mortality associated with early vs late or no invitation for routine CRC screening using fecal occult blood testing. This prospective cohort study was performed in the region of Stockholm-Gotland, Sweden, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021. All individuals of the target population of screening born from 1938 to 1954 were included. Data were analyzed from December 12, 2022, to June 25, 2023. Individuals were invited early (2008-2012), late (2013-2015), or not at all to screening with biennial guaiac-based fecal occult blood test. The early invitation group was considered the exposure group and the late or no invitation group was considered the control group. The main outcome was cancer-specific mortality, defined as CRC registered in the Cancer Register with CRC as underlying cause of death in the Cause of Death Register. Excess mortality was calculated as all-cause deaths among the individuals with CRC subtracted from the expected number of deaths had they not had CRC. Poisson regression analysis based on deaths and person-years was used to estimated mortality rate ratio (RR) with 95% CIs, adjusted for follow-up years and attained age. In total, 379 448 individuals (193 436 [51.0%] female) were invited for CRC screening, including 203 670 individuals in the exposure group and 175 778 in the control group. The mean screening participation rate was 63.3%, and there was a maximum of 14 years follow-up. There were 834 CRC deaths in 2 190 589 person-years in the exposure group, compared with 889 CRC deaths in 2 249 939 person-years in the control group. Individuals who underwent early CRC screening had reduced adjusted risk of CRC mortality (RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78-0.95) and excess mortality (RR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.75-0.93). This prospective cohort study of routine screening with fecal occult blood testing found a 14% decrease in CRC mortality associated with screening. The true association of screening with reduced mortality is expected to be higher due to some coexistence of testing in the control group and CRC deaths diagnosed more than 2 years after screening.

Value of fecal immunochemical test in colorectal cancer screening

Screening and early diagnosis and treatment have been proven effective in reducing the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy combined with pathological examination is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. However, due to the invasiveness, high cost and the need for professional endoscopists of colonoscopy, it is not feasible to directly use this method for mass population screening. Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is one of the screening techniques recommended by authoritative international guidelines for colorectal cancer screening, and has been widely used in population-based colorectal cancer screening programs in countries around the world. This paper elaborates on the value of FIT in colorectal cancer screening from different aspects, such as the technical principles, the screening efficiency, the screening strategies, and the population effects and benefits. Additionally, it describes the current situation of colorectal cancer screening in China and summarizes the challenges faced in colorectal cancer screening in order to optimize the FIT-based colorectal cancer screening strategies in the population and provide theoretical reference for effective colorectal cancer screening.

Colorectal neoplasia surveillance in inflammatory bowel disease

Performing colorectal neoplasia surveillance in persons with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that is both clinically effective and cost effective is among the greatest challenges facing endoscopists who care for this population. While heightened colorectal cancer (CRC) risk has long been recognized among persons with IBD, this risk has been declining over time, with recent reports suggesting no more than a 1.5–2-fold higher risk compared to age and sex matched members of the general population. Nonetheless, given that CRC still occurs at a higher rate in this population, current surveillance strategies are inadequate for some persons. Conversely, 80–90% of persons with IBD had no neoplastic lesions identified during colonoscopy surveillance, suggesting that many persons with IBD are unnecessarily exposed to the risks of colonoscopy, with society bearing these excess costs.&#x0D; The purpose of colorectal neoplasia surveillance is to reduce the burden of CRC and CRC-related death in the IBD population. Societal guidelines recommend initiating colorectal neoplasia screening with colonoscopy in all persons with colorectal IBD involving at least the rectosigmoid (or at least 1/3 of the colorectum if accompanied by discontinuous inflammation) at 8–10 years following disease diagnosis and continuing lifelong surveillance every 1–5 years. Major factors influencing surveillance frequency include historical disease severity, extent of colorectal inflammation, chronic post-inflammatory changes, family history of CRC, history of colorectal neoplasm, primary sclerosing cholangitis, prior colonoscopy findings, and adequacy of prior surveillance. All guidelines further recommend targeted sampling or resection of suspicious visible abnormalities, and some societies continue to recommend extensive non-targeted biopsies to detect “invisible” neoplasia, particularly if other adjunctive optical modalities, such as dye-spray chromoendoscopy (DCE) or virtual chromoendoscopy (VCE), are not performed, or if the mucosa is poorly visualized, such as in areas of significant inflammation, post-inflammatory polyposis, or poor bowel preparation. Most societies now advocate for DCE or VCE as primary screening tools for IBD neoplasia surveillance or, at a minimum, as alternative modalities to traditional white light colonoscopy with non-targeted biopsies where resources and expertise exists.&#x0D; However, there are no prospective studies demonstrating a reduction in the incidence of CRC or of death from CRC with current surveillance strategies in persons with IBD. Furthermore, observations from large retrospective studies are also conflicting. A Cochrane analysis of 3 studies in persons with UC did not find a significant mortality benefit for current surveillance strategies. Considering that IBD afflicts many persons at a young age, is rising in prevalence in Canada and globally, and requires intensive lifelong surveillance , the amount of endoscopy resources directed toward IBD surveillance is potentially enormous. Increasing demands on colonoscopy resources from expansion of population-based CRC screening programs and an aging population are likely to challenge the ability to continue to provide intensive surveillance to all persons with IBD. Optimizing delivery of limited colonoscopy resources will thus be essential to maintain effective CRC prevention programs in this population.&#x0D; Current standards for neoplasia surveillance in IBD have been recently updated. Shah and Itzkowitz authored a comprehensive review that includes epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of colorectal neoplasia, along with a chart that compares surveillance recommendations put forward by multiple societies. The present review will highlight new evidence influencing neoplasia surveillance and provide practical approaches for surveillance and management of neoplastic lesions in the IBD population.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer within a Population-Based Organized Screening Program.

The interruption of the activity of population-based organized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs due to the COVID pandemic may have affected their results in terms of the detection of preneoplastic lesions and CRC. We evaluated the impact of the COVID pandemic on the delays, participation, adherence to colonoscopies, lesions detected, and CRC stage at diagnosis in a CRC screening program. We analyzed all the invitations between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2021. We defined the pandemic period as the period after 12 March 2020. We calculated the delay intervals (successive and all rounds), the rates of participation, adherence to colonoscopy after a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT), and the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy, specifically of CRC and colorectal neoplasia (CRC and/or adenoma), as well as the CRC stage at diagnosis. In the period analyzed, 976,187 invitations were sent (61.0% in the pandemic period), 439,687 FIT were returned (62.4% in the pandemic period) and 23,092 colonoscopies were performed (59.1% in the pandemic period). The colonoscopies were normal in 7378 subjects (32.4%) and CRC was detected in 916 subjects (4.0%). In successive rounds, the delay increased significantly by seven months during the pandemic period (p < 0.001). In all the invitations, the delay from the invitation to the colonoscopy increased significantly by 8 days (p < 0.001). Once adjusted for the confounding variables, the participation in the screening program increased significantly (OR = 1.1; 95% CI = 1.09-1.11), with no changes in the adherence to colonoscopy (OR = 0.9; 95% CI = 0.8-1.0). We found no differences in the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in terms of CRC (OR = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.78-1.02) or colorectal neoplasia (OR = 0.98; 95% CI = 0.92-1.03) detection. Finally, we found no differences in the CRC stage at diagnosis (p = 0.2). Although the interruption of the CRC screening program due to the COVID pandemic increased the delays, it did not reduce participation, adherence to colonoscopy, or the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy compliance and diagnostic yield in a large population-based colorectal cancer screening programme

ObjectivesWith the intention of providing a reference for secondary prevention, our study provides some insight on diagnostic yield of factors influencing compliance with colonoscopy and the presence of advanced adenomas (AA).MethodsWe conducted large-scale CRC screening among local Tianjin residents aged 40–75 years between 2012 and 2019. A high-risk factor questionnaire (HRFQ) was distributed to each participant, followed by the performance of a fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Participants who tested positively for any of these items were advised to undergo a colonoscopy. Relevant basic information was collected from participants during CRC screening, and the screening data were sorted and analysed.ResultsA total of 5,670,924 people participated in CRC screening by the end of 2019, including 275,708 people in the high-risk group, and 74,685 (27.1%) people who underwent colonoscopy. The results of the logistic regression model demonstrated that participants with a history of mucous bloody stool (OR = 8.20, 95% CI: 7.92, 8.50, p < 0.001), chronic diarrhea (OR = 5.73, 95% CI: 5.57, 5.89, p < 0.001), and higher level of education (OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.80, 1.93, p < 0.001) were more likely to comply with a colonoscopy. Several factors including age (70–75 years old:OR = 3.72, 95% CI: 2.71, 5.10, p < 0.001), and FIT( +) (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.42,1.90, p < 0.001) were identified to be associated with the presence of AA.ConclusionsIncreased compliance with colonoscopy is urgently needed. Our findings can inform the design of future effective large-scale population-based CRC screening programmes.

Knowledge, Compliance, and Inequities in Colon Cancer Screening in Spain: An Exploratory Study.

In Spain, inequities exist in implementing colorectal cancer (CRC) tests with the target population-adults aged 50 to 69-as part of population-based CRC screening programs. This research aims to further our understanding of the target population's awareness, attitudes, and perceptions of these test-based screening programs. A survey was carried out using an online panel representative of the target population, with a sample collected from 5313 individuals. Data collection took place in June 2022. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were carried out using contingency tables, the Chi-square test, and Cramer's V statistics. The sample was also segmented based on key variables. Finally, the results were analyzed using logistic regression. In the sample population, 62.5% had taken the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), 72.5% reported receiving the invitation letter to participate in the screening program, and 86.8% had prior knowledge of the FOBT. Noncompliance was mainly due to lack of symptoms (40%), non-receipt of invitation letters (39.7%), and forgetfulness or neglect (28.5%). On the contrary, receipt of the letter of invitation (OR 7.35, p < 0.01) and prior knowledge of FOBT (OR 6.32, p < 0.01) were the main variables that increased the probability of test uptake. Other significant variables included frequency of primary care visits (OR 1.71, p < 0.01) and being older (65-69 years old) (OR 1.52, p < 0.01) There is still a pressing need for greater awareness of both CRC risk factors and the benefits of early detection, as well as for overcoming the common misconception that detection should only be sought when symptoms are present.

The challenge of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in low and middle-income countries (LMIC): The Brazilian ten year long experience.

129 Background: The increasing incidence of CRC seen in LMIC and the high mortality rates compared to high-income countries points towards the difficult implementation of an effective screening strategy in LMIC. Brazil is one of the few Latin American countries and LMIC that have a population-based CRC screening program, targeting ages 50 to 74 and performing a fecal occult blood test (FT) every 2 years and colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy as a confirmatory test. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study, which evaluated the prevalence of every stage of CRC/carcinoma in situ (CIS) at the time of its diagnosis from 2013 to 2022. Similar data regarding the Brazilian breast and cervical cancer screening programs was obtained. Each stage was evaluated by age targeted by their respective screening program using the national database (DATASUS). Results: In the analyzed decade there was a total of 87507 CRC/CIS cases in the overall studied population, which only 11% was of Stage I or less and 70% was of stage III or IV at the time of diagnosis. In the subdivided age groups, the prevalence of each stage remained somewhat constant through all groups (In situ/Stage 0 = 8-9%; Stage I = 3%; Stage II = 20-21%; Stage III = 35-36%; Stage IV = 32-34%) and the majority of cases occurred from age 60 to 64 (20549 cases). In 2022, a total of 2128168 RT was performed - corresponding to only 4,6% of the targeted population - and 408489 colonoscopies. When compared to other cancer screening programs, CRC presents indifferent to age group, sustaining constant rate of regional/distant stages, with at least 32% of patients presenting a &lt;17% 5-year survival rate (5-YSR), whereas cervical cancer presents approximately 80% of cases at &gt;91% 5-YSR at the first age group, and breast cancer with 89% of cases at &gt;86% 5-YSR at the first age group. Conclusions: Data suggests the inefficacy of CRC screening implementation, and literature sustains to be due to its poor acceptance by the population and the unavailability of confirmatory imaging tests due to long-waiting times and high cost, reducing its ability to detect early stage lesions, in contrast with the overall acceptance and high effectivity of cervical/breast cancer screening. The discrepancy between the guidelines and their implementation as a screening program in LMIC are in consonant. This study aims to be a launching point for new research and interventional studies evaluating the impact of better locally adjusted actions in the prevention of CRC such as screening invitations, in-community health education, and the developing of better cost-benefit confirmatory methods might hinder the advance of CRC in LMIC.[Table: see text]

Dilemmas in the Clinical Management of pT1 Colorectal Cancer.

Implementation of population-based colorectal cancer screening programs has led to increases in the incidence of pT1 colorectal cancer. These incipient invasive cancers have a very good prognosis and can be treated locally, but more than half of these cases are treated with surgery due to the presence of histological high-risk criteria. These high-risk criteria are suboptimal, with no consensus among clinical guidelines, heterogeneity in definitions and assessment, and poor concordance in evaluation, and recent evidence suggests that some of these criteria considered high risk might not necessarily affect individual prognosis. Current criteria classify most patients as high risk with an indication for additional surgery, but only 2-10.5% have lymph node metastasis, and the residual tumor is present in less than 20%, leading to overtreatment. Patients with pT1 colorectal cancer have excellent disease-free survival, and recent evidence indicates that the type of treatment, whether endoscopic or surgical, does not significantly impact prognosis. As a result, the protective role of surgery is questionable. Moreover, surgery is a more aggressive treatment option, with the potential for higher morbidity and mortality rates. This article presents a comprehensive review of recent evidence on the clinical management of pT1 colorectal cancer. The review analyzes the limitations of histological evaluation, the prognostic implications of histological risk status and the treatment performed, the adverse effects associated with both endoscopic and surgical treatments, and new advances in endoscopic treatment.

Personalized colorectal cancer screening: study protocol of a mixed-methods study on the effectiveness of tailored intervals based on prior f-Hb concentration in a fit-based colorectal cancer screening program (PERFECT-FIT)

BackgroundIn 2014, the national population-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program was implemented in the Netherlands. Biennial fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) for hemoglobin (Hb) is used at a cut-off of 47 µg Hb per gram feces. The CRC screening program successfully started, with high participation rates and yield of screening. Now that the program has reached a steady state, there is potential to further optimize the program. Previous studies showed that prior fecal Hb (f-Hb) concentrations just below the FIT cut-off are associated with a higher risk for detection of advanced neoplasia (AN) at subsequent screening rounds. We aim to achieve a better balance between the harms and benefits of CRC screening by offering participants tailored invitation intervals based on prior f-Hb concentrations after negative FIT.MethodsThis mixed-methods study will be performed within the Dutch national CRC screening program and will consist of: (1) a randomized controlled trial (RCT), (2) focus group studies, and (3) decision modelling. The primary outcome is the yield of AN per screened individual in personalized screening vs. uniform screening. Secondary outcomes are perspectives on, acceptability of and adherence to personalized screening, as well as long-term outcomes of personalized vs. uniform screening. The RCT will include 20,000 participants of the Dutch CRC screening program; 10,000 in the intervention and 10,000 in the control arm. The intervention arm will receive a personalized screening interval based on the prior f-Hb concentration (1, 2 or 3 years). The control arm will receive a screening interval according to current practice (2 years). The focus group studies are designed to understand individuals’ perspectives on and acceptability of personalized CRC screening. Results of the RCT will be incorporated into the MISCAN-Colon model to determine long-term benefits, harms, and costs of personalized vs. uniform CRC screening.DiscussionThe aim of this study is to evaluate the yield, feasibility, acceptability and (cost-) effectiveness of personalized CRC screening through tailored invitation intervals based on prior f-Hb concentrations. This knowledge may be of guidance for health policy makers and may provide evidence for implementing personalized CRC screening in The Netherlands and/or other countries using FIT as screening modality.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05423886, June 21, 2022, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05423886

Self-Reported Reasons for Inconsistent Participation in Colorectal Cancer Screening Using FIT in Flanders, Belgium

Background: In Flanders, the uptake in the population-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program (using fecal immunochemical test, FIT) is suboptimal (~50%). This study explored the reasons for inconsistent participation in FIT screening among irregular participants in Flanders. Methods: An online survey with both open questions and fixed statements was sent to irregular participants (2016–2018) in the Flemish CRC screening program. A reminder email followed eight weeks after the first email. Data analysis used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Post-stratification weights based on gender, age group, and the first two digits of the postcode were employed to reduce non-response bias. Results: In total, 5328 out of 19,592 irregular participants responded to the survey. While the main reasons not to participate were related to ‘postponing participation’ and ‘having other priorities’, the main reasons to participate were related to the importance of (preventive) health checks. The role of general practitioners (GPs) in promoting CRC screening also emerged as an important theme among the respondents’ answers (based on fixed statements). Conclusions: The study reported the main reasons for inconsistent participation in FIT screening for CRC in Flanders. The findings are helpful in guiding tailored interventions to increase FIT screening uptake in the region.

Colorectal cancer screening in patients with inherited bleeding disorders: high cancer detection rate in hemophilia patients

BackgroundThe population-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program in individuals aged 55 to 75 years in the Netherlands uses fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), to detect hemoglobin in feces, followed by colonoscopy in individuals with a positive FIT. ObjectivesThe objectives of this study are to assess the false-positive rate, detection rate, and positive predictive value of FIT for CRC and advanced adenoma (AA) in patients with Von Willebrand disease (VWD) or hemophilia. MethodsWe performed a multicenter, nationwide cross-sectional study embedded in 2 nationwide studies on VWD and hemophilia in the Netherlands. ResultsIn total, 493 patients with hemophilia (n = 329) or VWD (n = 164) were included, of whom 351 patients participated in the CRC screening program (71.2%). FIT positivity and false-positive rate in patients with hemophilia and VWD were significantly higher than those in the general population (14.8% vs. 4.3%, p < .001 and 10.3% vs. 2.3%, p <.001, respectively). In patients with hemophilia, the detection rate of CRC/AA was significantly higher than that in the general male population (4.5% vs. 1.8%, p = .02), and the positive predictive value of FIT for CRC/AA was comparable (32.3% vs. 39.7%, n.s.). In patients with VWD, the detection rate was similar to that of the general population (0.8% vs. 1.4%, n.s.), whereas the positive predictive value was significantly lower than that in the general population (6.3% vs. 36.8%, p = .02). ConclusionThis study indicates that despite a high false-positive rate of FIT in patients with inherited bleeding disorders, the detection rate of CRC and/or AA in hemophilia patients is high. FIT performs different in patients with hemophilia or VWD compared with the general population.

Colorectal Cancer Screening in Patients with Inherited Bleeding Disorders: High Cancer Detection Rate in Hemophilia Patients

Introduction: Non-invasive stool tests are the most commonly used colorectal cancer (CRC) screening modalities worldwide. The population-based CRC screening program in the Netherlands uses fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), to detect human hemoglobin in feces, followed by colonoscopy in individuals with a positive FIT. The target population consists of women and men aged 55-75 years. No studies have been conducted on the performance of this screening program in patients with inherited bleeding disorders, such as Von Willebrand disease (VWD) and hemophilia, whereas the FIT performance in these patients may substantially differ from the general population. We hypothesized that the false-positive rate of FIT is higher in patients with inherited bleeding disorders than in the general population. Therefore, our study aims to assess the false-positive rate and positive predictive value of FIT for CRC and advanced adenoma (AA) in patients with VWD or hemophilia. Methods: We performed a multicenter, nationwide cross-sectional study embedded in two nationwide studies on VWD and hemophilia in the Netherlands, the Willebrand in the Netherlands-Prospective study and the Haemophilia in the Netherlands 6 study, respectively. Results: In total, 551 patients with inherited bleeding disorders (hemophilia, n=387; VWD, n=164) were included of whom 351 patients participated in the CRC screening program (63.7%). The FIT positivity rate and false-positive rate in hemophilia and VWD patients were significantly higher than in the general population (14.8% vs 4.3%, p<0.001 and 10.3% vs 2.3%, p<0.001, respectively). In hemophilia patients, the detection rate of CRC and/or AA (i.e., the proportion of participants in whom CRC and/or AA was detected) was significantly higher than in the general male population (4.5% vs 1.8% respectively, p=0.012). The positive predictive value of FIT for CRC and/or AA in hemophilia patients was comparable to the general male population (32.3% vs 39.6% respectively, p=0.28). In VWD patients, the positive predictive value of FIT for CRC and/or AA was significantly lower than in the general population (6.3% vs 36.8% respectively, p=0.01). However, the detection rate in VWD patients was similar to the general population (0.8% vs 1.4% respectively, p=0.83). Conclusion: This study indicates that the false-positive rate of FIT is higher in patients with inherited bleeding disorders than in the general population. Nevertheless, the detection rate of CRC and/or AA in hemophilia patients is high and the positive predictive value of FIT for CRC and/or AA is not affected. In VWD patients, the positive predictive value is lower than in the general population. Therefore, the benefit of the CRC screening program seems different in patients with hemophilia and VWD compared to the general population. Additional studies are needed to evaluate possible adjustment of the CRC screening program for these patients.

Surgical complications in a population-based colorectal cancer screening program: Incidence and associated factors

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs produce risks, including those derived from colorectal surgeries. The objective of this analysis is to evaluate the complications associated with the surgery. Retrospective analysis including patients who required colorectal surgery within the population-based CRC screening program in Galicia (May 2013–June 2019). We analyzed the indication for surgery and the rate of in-hospital (mild I-II, severe III-V, Clavien-Dindo classification) and at discharge complications. We performed a multivariate analysis to determine the variables independently associated. In the analyzed period, 1092 patients underwent surgery (benign lesion 16.5%, pT1 CRC 18.2%, rest of CRC 64.6%) laparoscopic approach in 69.8% of the cases. In-hospital complications were detected in 19.2% of patients (mild: 13.4%, severe: 5.9%, deaths: 0.2%) and at discharge in 159 (14.6%) patients. Male sex was associated with in-hospital complications (OR 2.0 95% CI 1.3−3.0). The variables associated with severe complications were: male sex (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.2−5.5), tertiary hospital (OR 0.5, 95% CI (0.2−0.9) and ECOG I (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.05−0.6). The factors associated with complications after discharge were age ≥60 years (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.3), rectal location (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.3) and in-hospital complications (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2). Surgery is the main cause of morbidity and mortality associated with a CRC screening program. These results must be taken into account in the decision making of lesions that are candidates for endoscopic resection. Los programas de cribado de cáncer colorrectal (CCR) producen riesgos, entre ellos los derivados de las cirugías colorrectales. El objetivo de este análisis es evaluar las complicaciones asociadas a la cirugía. Análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes que requirieron cirugía colorrectal dentro del programa poblacional de cribado de CCR de Galicia (mayo de 2013-junio de 2019). Analizamos laindicación de la cirugía y la tasa de complicaciones intrahospitalarias (leves I-II, graves III-V, clasificación Clavien–Dindo) y al alta. Determinamos mediante un análisis multivariante las variables asociadas a su aparición. En el periodo analizado, 1092 pacientes fueron intervenidos (lesión benigna 16.5%, CCR pT1 18.2%, resto CCR 64.6%), por vía laparoscópica en el 69.8% de los casos. Se detectaron complicaciones intrahospitalarias en el 19.2% de los pacientes (leves: 13.4%, graves: 5.9%, fallecimientos: 0.2%) y al alta en 159 (14.6%) pacientes. El sexo masculino se asoció a las complicaciones intrahospitalarias (OR 2.0 IC 95% 1.3−3.0). Las variables asociadas a las complicaciones graves fueron: sexo masculino (OR 2.6, IC 95% 1.2−5.5), hospital terciario (OR 0.5, IC 95% (0.2−0.9) y ECOG I (OR 0.2, IC 95% 0.05−0.6). Los factores asociados a las complicaciones tras el alta fueron edad ≥60 años (OR 1.5, IC 95% 1.0–2.3), la ubicación rectal (OR 1.6, IC 95% 1.1–2.3) y complicaciones intrahospitalarias (OR 2.2, IC 95% 1.5–3.2). La cirugía es la principal causa de morbimortalidad asociada a un programa de cribado de CCR. Estos resultados deben ser tenidos en cuenta en la toma de decisiones en lesiones candidatas a resección endoscópica.

Concurrent participation in breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening in the Netherlands

BackgroundMany European countries offer organised population-based breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening programmes. Around age 55 and 60, Dutch women are invited to all three screening programmes. We examined the extent to which participation concurs and identified factors influencing concurrent participation. Materials and methodsIndividual level data from breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening invitations between 2017 and 2019 were extracted from the Dutch screening registry. The percentages of women participating in all three, two, one, or none of the programmes around age 55 and 60, and before subsequent round invitation were determined. Multivariate ordinal regression analyses were performed to estimate whether population density, socio-economic status (SES) per postal code area, and time between the three invitations (<3, 3–6, >6 months) were associated with concurrent participation. ResultsData from 332,484 women were analysed. At age 55, 53.7% participated in all three programmes, 22.1% in two, 11.7% in one, and 12.6% did not participate at all. At age 60, a similar participation pattern was observed. Women living in areas with higher population density were less likely (odds ratios 0.75–0.94) and women in higher SES groups were more likely (odds ratios 1.12–1.60) to participate in more screening programmes, although this positive association was smaller for the highest SES group. No substantial association was found between concurrent participation and timing of invitations. ConclusionsMore than half of Dutch women participated in all three screening programmes and around 12% did not participate in any. Concurrent participation was lower in cities and lower SES groups.

Adenoma detection rate is enough to assess endoscopist performance: a population-based observational study of FIT-positive colonoscopies.

Background and study aims Neoplasia-related indicators, such as adenoma detection rate (ADR), are a priority in the quality improvement process for colonoscopy. Our aim was to assess and compare different detection and characterization indicators in fecal immunochemical test (FIT)-positive colonoscopies, to determine associated factors, and to propose benchmarks. Patients and methods Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from all colonoscopies performed between 2015 and 2019 after a positive quantitative FIT in the population-based colorectal cancer screening program conducted in Alsace, part of the French national program. Detection indicators included ADR, mean number of adenomas per colonoscopy, and proximal serrated lesion (SL) detection rate. Characterization indicators included rate of non-neoplastic polyp (NNP) detection. Results Overall, 13,067 FIT-positive colonoscopies were evaluated, performed by 80 community gastroenterologists. The overall ADR was 57.6 %, and a 10 µg/g increase in fecal hemoglobin concentration was significantly associated with higher ADR (odds ratio [95 % confidence interval] = 1.02 [1.02–1.03]). Endoscopists whose ADR was ≥ 55 % were high detectors for all neoplasia, including proximal SLs and number of adenomas. The rate of detection of NNPs was 39.5 % in highest detectors (ADR > 70 %), significantly higher than in lower detectors (21.4 %) ( P < 0.001). There was a strong correlation between detection and characterization indicators, e. g. between rates of detection of proximal SLs and NNPs (Pearson = 0.73; P < 0.01). Conclusions A single indicator, ADR, is enough to assess endoscopist performance for both detection and characterization in routine practice provided the minimum target standard is raised and a maximum standard is added: 55 % and 70 % for FIT-positive colonoscopies, respectively.

The impact of pre-notifications and reminders on participation in colorectal cancer screening – A randomised controlled trial

This study aimed to test whether participation in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening can be increased by combining the standard invitation procedure with a pre-notification and/or an extra reminder.In a non-blinded randomised controlled trial nested in a population-based CRC screening programme employing the faecal immunochemical test, Group I received a three-staged invitation procedure (pre-notification, invitation and one reminder), Group II received a three-staged invitation procedure (invitation and two reminders) and Group III received a four-staged invitation procedure (pre-notification, invitation and two reminders). The control group received the invitation and one reminder (usual procedure).A total of 59,041 participants were included in the analyses. Overall participation rates increased from 66.9% in the control group to 69.8% in the four-staged invitation procedure corresponding to an increase in overall participation rate of 2.9% (95% CI: 1.8 to 4.0). In the age group 50–59 years, the four-staged invitation procedure increased the participation rate by 4.0% (95% CI: 2.4 to 5.6). An extra reminder increased participation with 2.7% (95% CI: 1.1; 4.2) for males compared to 1.1% (95% CI: −0.3; 2.5) for females.In conclusion, the four-staged invitation procedure was the most effective invitation procedure indicating that multiple invitation procedures are most effective, especially in the youngest age group. If a three-staged invitation procedure is applied, a second reminder should be preferred over a pre-notification.Trial registrationThe project was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 26 February 2020 and patient enrolment began in August 2020.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04292366.

Nurse-led reinforced education by mobile messenger improves the quality of bowel preparation of colonoscopy in a population-based colorectal cancer screening program: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAdequate bowel preparation is an important colonoscopy quality indicator. Reinforced education is effective in improving bowel preparation quality of colonoscopy with mixed indications. However, it remains unclear whether such improvement can be consistently observed in pre- and post-irrigation during colonoscopy in screening population. ObjectiveWe aimed to study the effectiveness of nurse-led reinforced education delivered via mobile messenger (WhatsApp Messenger) on pre- and post-irrigation bowel preparation adequacy in colonoscopies for positive fecal immunochemical test in a population-based colorectal cancer screening program. DesignRandomized controlled trial. SettingA hospital-based endoscopy centre in Hong Kong, China. ParticipantsPatients undergoing colonoscopy for positive fecal immunochemical test in a population-based colorectal cancer screening program. MethodsThe recruited patients were randomized to receive either WhatsApp Reinforced Education (WRE) or No Reinforced Education (NRE) (1:1). Patients in WRE group received one-off reinforced education of bowel preparation in text and video formats via WhatsApp Messenger four days prior to colonoscopy sent by investigator while NRE group received standard-of-care only.Primary outcome was the bowel preparation adequacy rate as evaluated by Aronchick Scale. Secondary outcomes included bowel preparation adequacy rate as evaluated by Boston Bowel Preparation Scale, adenoma detection rate and risk factors of bowel preparation inadequacy. Continuous variables were described as means with standard deviation (SD) and analyzed with Student's t-test. The Pearson Chi Square Test or Fisher Exact Test was used to assess categorical variables when appropriate. Risk factors were determined by logistic regression. ResultsFrom July 2017 to April 2019, 685 eligible patients were randomized to WRE (n = 343) and NRE (n = 342) groups. Patients in WRE group had higher bowel preparation adequacy rate as evaluated by Aronchik Scale (83.4% vs 75.4%, p = 0.010) and Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (94.2% vs 88.9%, p = 0.013). Adenoma detection rate was higher in WRE group but without statistical significance (71.4% vs 67.5%, p = 0.27). In logistic regression, WhatsApp Reinforced Education reduced the inadequate bowel preparation risk (Adjusted odds ratio: 0.564; 95% confidence interval: 0.371–0.856, p = 0.007). Male gender (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.638; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.054–2.546, p = 0.028) and diabetes (AOR: 2.062; 95% CI: 1.215–3.497, p = 0.007) were risk factors of bowel preparation inadequacy. ConclusionsNurse-led mobile messenger-initiated reinforced education improves both pre- and post-irrigation bowel preparation quality of screening colonoscopy following positive fecal immunochemical test. It is readily incorporable in clinical practice because of its low setup cost. Registration numberRegistered on 4 July 2017 on https://clinicaltrials.gov/ (NCT03209739).