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Goals of screening.
1School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
Cancer
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Colorectal cancer screening using fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) aims for earlier detection and reduced mortality. Definitive efficacy results from ongoing trials are pending, with differing organizational recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Preventive Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, prompting research into screening effectiveness.
- Screening aims for earlier detection and potential incidence reduction through polyp removal.
- Four randomized clinical trials are evaluating fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) for colorectal cancer mortality reduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review general issues concerning colorectal cancer screening initiation, including benefits, risks, and precision.
- To analyze trends in colorectal cancer incidence, mortality, stage at detection, and survival rates.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of general screening decision-making factors.
- Review of epidemiological trends in colorectal cancer.
- Analysis of screening precision, benefits, and risks.
Main Results:
- Colorectal cancer continues to have high incidence and mortality rates.
- Improvements are noted in the stage at which colorectal cancer is detected and in patient survival.
- Final results from randomized clinical trials on FOBT efficacy are not yet available.
Conclusions:
- Established guidelines for colorectal cancer screening exist from organizations like the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute.
- Some organizations currently find insufficient evidence to recommend for or against FOBT for colorectal cancer screening.