Colonoscopy Screening and Polyp Detection in the Southeastern United States

Screening colonoscopy is recommended for polyp detection and colorectal cancer prevention for those aged 50-75 years. The aim of this study was to determine colon polyp incidence rates detected through screening colonoscopies in the Southeast United States. A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine polyp rates. Charts with a diagnostic code of "screening" colonoscopy were reviewed for age, gender, number of polyps, and type of polyps. The number of charts reviewed was 534, with a total of 239 found to have polyps. Polyp type was defined as hyperplastic and adenomatous, with all adenomatous types grouped together. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. The median age of participants was 62 years with 58% being male. The combined rate of colon polyp detection was 44.6%. Seventy percent of the overall sample was found to have at least one polyp. From 16% to 20% of the study population had mixed (adenomatous and hyperplastic) polyps. This study supports the need for continued screening colonoscopies for polyp detection and removal. Education is key and nurses are often the ones who have the greatest educational opportunity. This study indicates the need for further research that may support colorectal cancer screening beginning at an earlier age.