Study on Colorectal Cancer Screening Uptake in the UK

Overview of Colorectal Cancer

A recent study conducted by Cancer Research UK examined the patterns of colorectal cancer screening uptake from 2010 to 2015. Colorectal cancer, commonly referred to as bowel cancer, originates in the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically in the colon and rectum. Early diagnosis significantly enhances the chances of successful treatment; however, symptoms often go unnoticed in the initial stages. Screening tests are instrumental in identifying early indicators of the disease.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in the UK

In the UK, a screening initiative was launched in 2006 aimed at individuals over the age of 60, who are at an elevated risk for developing colorectal cancer. The program involves mailing home testing kits, which require participants to collect small stool samples over three days and return them to the designated bowel screening unit using provided envelopes. An evaluation of the program during its rollout from 2006 to 2009 revealed a low participation rate, with only 54% of tests being returned. Notably, the uptake was lower in socially deprived areas compared to their less deprived counterparts.

Findings from the 2010-2015 Review

In their recent publication in the European Journal of Cancer, Cancer Research UK analyzed the colorectal cancer screening data from 2010 to 2015 to determine if uptake patterns had improved. The research utilized data from the National Bowel Cancer Screening System, focusing on the uptake rates among 4.4 million first-time invitees aged 60 to 64.

The study revealed an overall screening uptake rate of 52% over the six-year period, exhibiting a gradual decline from 53% in 2010 to 49% in 2015. The analysis highlighted disparities in uptake rates, showing lower participation in the most socially deprived areas (43% compared to 57% in less deprived areas), in the most ethnically diverse regions (41% compared to 56% in less diverse areas), and between genders (47% for men versus 56% for women).

Concerns and Future Directions

Cancer Research UK expressed significant concern regarding the declining rates of colorectal cancer screening and the increasing inequalities associated with it. A new screening method, the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), is anticipated to enhance detection accuracy and user-friendliness by requiring only one sample for analysis. Preliminary research indicates that the introduction of the FIT test could lead to improved screening participation rates.

Scheduled for implementation in the UK bowel screening program in late 2018, Cancer Research UK is optimistic that the FIT test will bolster screening uptake, ultimately facilitating earlier diagnoses for a greater number of individuals affected by colorectal cancer.

References

Hirst Y, Stoffel S, Baio G et al. Uptake of the English Bowel (Colorectal) Cancer Screening Programme: an update 5 years after the full roll-out. European Journal of Cancer (available online) doi:10.1016/j.ejca.2018.07.135
Cancer Research UK. Half of over-60’s ignore lifesaving bowel cancer screening. EurekAlert https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-09/cru-hoo090418.php