Attitudes toward colorectal cancer screening tests

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Patient Preferences

Background:

• Colorectal cancer screening is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
• Several screening modalities exist, each with varying features and patient acceptance.
• Understanding patient and physician values is key to effective screening implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare patient and physician preferences for five colorectal cancer screening alternatives.
• To determine how patient and physician values for test features influence screening choice.
• To assess physicians' perceptions of patient values regarding screening tests.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 1998 at an academic medical center.
• 217 patients and 39 physicians participated.
• Data collected on preferences and perceived importance of test features (e.g., accuracy, invasiveness).

Main Results:

• Patients favored fecal occult blood testing (43%) and colonoscopy (40%).
• Preference for colonoscopy was linked to valuing accuracy; preference for fecal occult blood testing was linked to avoiding invasive features.
• Physicians inaccurately perceived patient priorities, particularly regarding accuracy and discomfort.

Conclusions:

• Patient preferences for colorectal cancer screening are driven by specific test feature values.
• Physicians demonstrate a significant disconnect in understanding patient-centric values for screening.
• Clinical practice should integrate patient values into discussions about colorectal cancer screening options.