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The psychologic effect of attending a screening program for colorectal polyps
E Thiis-Evensen1, I Wilhelmsen, G S Hoff
1Dept. of Medicine, Telemark Central Hospital, Skien, Norway.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|February 27, 1999
Summary
Colorectal cancer screening participation did not negatively impact psychological health in the short term. Attendees showed lower psychiatric morbidity compared to controls, suggesting screening is safe for mental well-being.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Screening programs for cancer may cause psychological distress.
- Colorectal adenomas are precursors to colorectal cancer.
- Investigating the psychological impact of colorectal cancer screening is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the psychological effects of attending a colorectal adenoma screening program.
- To determine if screening for colorectal cancer precursors causes negative mental health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, controlled screening study using flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy was conducted in Norway.
- Participants (n=451) were assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at 14 days, 3, and 17 months post-examination.
- A matched control group (n=314) also completed the questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Attendees reported lower psychiatric morbidity (GHQ-28 and HADS scores) compared to controls.
- A trend towards increased scores over time was observed in the screened group.
- No significant adverse psychological effects were noted within 17 months post-screening.
Conclusions:
- Colorectal cancer screening attendees did not experience significant negative psychological effects in the initial 17 months.
- The study suggests that colorectal cancer screening is psychologically safe in the short term.
- Further long-term monitoring may be warranted for potential delayed psychological effects.