Barriers to colorectal cancer screening in the developing world: The view from Pakistan

Colorectal cancer screening has become a defining concern of current gastroenterological practice in many Western nations. This same focus does not exist in many developing countries, including Pakistan. There is a need to develop a model for the developing world. Here are several areas that need to be pursued: (1) epidemiological research; (2) physician and public education; (3) training of gastroenterologists, especially female ones; (4) less expensive and more culturally acceptable screening options (fecal occult blood testing); and (5) cost-effectiveness analyses. Gastroenterologists in developing countries need to step up to educate people and promote, where possible and in keeping with local conditions, the prevention and early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.