Fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy in screening pattern makers for colon cancer at their work place

A large auto manufacturer screened its workers who belonged to the Pattern Makers (wood and metal workers) League of North America for colon cancer. Four-hundred nine asymptomatic workers were screened. Our group was only involved in performing most of the fiberoptic sigmoidoscopies in this study. This provided us with an opportunity to evaluate the practicality of the use of fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy for mass screening at a work place. The average extent of insertion of the sigmoidoscopy was 55 cm, and the average time required was 10 min. The prevalence of polyps was 10.76%, and only one in situ carcinoma was reported. This prevalence of both colon polyps and colon cancer is similar to that reported in other studies. Fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy is a valuable tool for mass screening of populations at risk for colon cancer. It is superior to rigid sigmoidoscopy not only in patient tolerance, but also the extent of examination and consequently the diagnostic yield.