The use of a cancer registry in a mass screening program for colorectal cancer

This paper presents the results of our experiences in utilizing a population-based registry in the follow-up of individuals screened for colorectal cancer. The colorectal screening program under study was conducted in the Western New York area in 1984. A total of 58,934 stool guaiac slide kits were distributed and 11,497 persons returned them for testing. Of these, one or more slides were positive in 264 persons. The names of all persons returning kits for testing were subsequently matched against the names of all individuals reported to the Western New York Tumor Registry as having been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 1984. Through this mechanism, 18-positive matches were uncovered; 16 were found in the screening registry as having had a positive guaiac test; the remaining 2 were found to have had negative guaiac test results. The results of this screening program and the methods of follow-up employed are discussed.