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Flexible sigmoidoscopy as a screening procedure in rural patients
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Tuscaloosa 35487-0326.
Southern Medical Journal
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a valuable screening tool for colorectal polyps and cancer in rural, impoverished adults over 50. Primary care physicians can easily perform this essential physical examination component.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Preventive Medicine
- Rural Health
Background:
- Colorectal cancer screening is crucial for early detection.
- Access to screening may be limited in rural, impoverished areas.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy offers a practical screening option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate flexible sigmoidoscopy as a screening procedure.
- To assess its utility in rural, impoverished populations.
- To determine polyp and carcinoma detection rates.
Main Methods:
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy was performed on asymptomatic patients.
- Patients with positive fecal occult blood tests were also included.
- Data on polyp and carcinoma findings were collected.
Main Results:
- 16% of asymptomatic patients screened had polyps or carcinoma.
- 23% of patients with positive fecal occult blood tests had polyps or carcinoma.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy identified significant pathology in both groups.
Conclusions:
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy is an effective screening method for colorectal polyps and cancer.
- It is well-suited for primary care physicians in rural settings.
- This procedure should be considered for patients over 50, especially in underserved communities.
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