Association of obesity with colonic findings in screening colonoscopy in a large population-based study

Obesity is associated with an increased incidence of and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC). Screening colonoscopy seems particularly important for individuals with obesity. The aim of this study is to analyse the characteristics of screening colonoscopy in individuals with obesity.

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of records of 75,278 patients from a national colonoscopy screening programme in Poland. The database contained demographic data, colonoscopy results, self-reported data on weight and height, a standardized screenees' experience questionnaire and colorectal findings.

Adenoma detection rate and advanced neoplasia detection rate increased significantly in groups of increasing body mass index (BMI). In subjects with morbid obesity, odds ratios for proximal adenoma and proximal advanced neoplasia were 1.69 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28-2.21) and 1.66 (95% CI 1.01-2.72), respectively, despite the fact that with BMI increasing over 30 the preparation for colonoscopy was worse. Moreover, caecal intubation increased with increasing BMI. Tolerance of colonoscopy was better and preparation for colonoscopy was less inconvenient in individuals with obesity.

Obesity and morbid obesity are associated with increased detection of colorectal precursor lesions and better performance of screening colonoscopy. Participation in screening colonoscopy should be emphasized among individuals with obesity, taking into account the burden of CRC in this population.