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Screening flexible sigmoidoscopy: patient attitudes and compliance
1Evans Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital, Boston University Medical Center, Massachusetts.
Journal of General Internal Medicine
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is often less uncomfortable than expected, with most patients complying. Older patients may experience more pain, but overall, most would repeat the screening colon cancer test.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Preventive Medicine
- Patient Experience Research
Background:
- Screening flexible sigmoidoscopy is a key tool for colorectal cancer prevention.
- Understanding patient expectations and experiences is crucial for improving screening compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient expectations and attitudes towards screening flexible sigmoidoscopy.
- To measure patient-reported discomfort during the procedure.
- To identify factors influencing compliance with flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective patient surveys conducted before and after flexible sigmoidoscopy.
- Study conducted in an academic general internal medicine practice.
- Involved 105 consecutive patients scheduled for screening flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Main Results:
- 75% of patients completed the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure.
- Compliance was higher in men and those with a family history of colon cancer.
- While many reported embarrassment, discomfort, or pain, these were generally less than anticipated. Patients aged 65+ reported significantly more pain than younger patients.
Conclusions:
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy is generally well-tolerated and less adverse than expected.
- Clinicians should counsel patients on benefits, risks, and procedural expectations to facilitate informed decisions.
- Despite some discomfort, particularly in older adults, most patients would undergo the screening again.