Screening for colorectal cancer in Italy, 2009 survey

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant public health concern globally.
• Early detection through organized screening programs is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Italy has implemented national strategies for CRC screening, necessitating regular monitoring and evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the main results of the sixth national survey of Italian CRC screening programs.
• To assess the coverage, participation, and effectiveness of these programs by the end of 2009.
• To identify trends and challenges in CRC screening implementation across Italy.

Main Methods:

• The study analyzed data from the National Centre for Screening Monitoring (ONS) for the year 2009.
• Data included program activation, population coverage, screening test modalities (FOBT, FS), attendance rates, and detection rates.
• Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate program performance and identify disparities.

Main Results:

• By 2009, 98 CRC screening programs were active, covering 59% of the 50-69 year-old population.
• The adjusted attendance rate for fecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening was 50%, with significant regional variations.
• The detection rate for invasive cancer was 2.4/1,000 and for advanced adenomas was 11.6/1,000 in first-time screeners.

Conclusions:

• Italian CRC screening programs show progress in coverage but face challenges with regional disparities in attendance.
• FOBT remains the primary screening tool, with flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) used in some programs.
• Timely colonoscopic follow-up for positive FOBT results requires improvement to maximize screening program effectiveness.