Screening and surveillance for the early detection of colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps, 2008: a joint guideline from the American Cancer Society, the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer, and the American College of Radiology

Cancer screening behaviors and barriers in Asian Americans

OBJECTIVES

To determine differences in screening for routine physical exam and cancers among Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Cambodian Americans.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 2011 participants. Chi square was used to identify relationships between demographic/acculturation factors and screenings.

RESULTS

Never-screened rates were high for all Asian subgroups. Never-screened rates for mammography ranged from 20.1% to 78.5% for Pap test, 28% to 75.6% for prostate cancer, 56.7% to 97% for colorectal cancer, 65.3% to 94.9%. Koreans had the highest never screened for health checkups (34.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts should be made to comply with screening guidelines among Asian Americans.

Behind closed doors: physician-patient discussions about colorectal cancer screening

BACKGROUND

Despite the availability of multiple effective screening tests for colorectal cancer, screening rates remain suboptimal. The literature documents patient preferences for different test types and recommends a shared decision-making approach for physician-patient colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) discussions, but it is unknown whether such communication about CRCS preferences and options actually occurs in busy primary-care settings.

OBJECTIVE

Describe physician-patient CRCS discussions during a wellness visit.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional; patients audio-recorded with physicians.

PARTICIPANTS

A subset of patients (N = 64) participating in a behavioral intervention trial designed to increase CRCS who completed a wellness visit during the trial with a participating physician (N = 8).

APPROACH

Transcripts were analyzed using qualitative methods.

RESULTS

Physicians in this sample consistently recommended CRCS, but focused on colonoscopy. Physicians did not offer a fecal occult blood test alone as a screening choice, which may have created missed opportunities for some patients to get screened. In this single visit, physicians' communication processes generally precluded discussion of patients' test preferences and did not facilitate shared decision-making. Patients' questions indicated their interest in different CRCS test types and appeared to elicit more information from physicians. Some patients remained resistant to CRCS after discussing it with a physician.

CONCLUSION

If a preference for colonoscopy is widespread among primary-care physicians, the implications for intervention are either to prepare patients for this preference or to train physicians to offer options when recommending screening to patients.

Effect of orally administered bovine lactoferrin on the growth of adenomatous colorectal polyps in a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Lactoferrin (LF), a secreted, iron binding glycoprotein originally discovered as a component of milk, is found in a variety of exocrine secretions and in the secondary granules of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Animal experiments have shown that oral administration of bovine lactoferrin (bLF) exerts anticarcinogenesis effects in the colon and other organs of the rat. The aim of this study was to determine whether oral bLF could inhibit the growth of adenomatous colorectal polyps in human patients. A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted in 104 participants, ages 40 to 75 years, with polyps <or=5 mm in diameter and likely to be adenomas. Participants were assigned to receive placebo, 1.5-g bLF, or 3.0-g bLF daily for 12 months. Target adenomatous polyps were monitored by colonoscopy. Ingestion of 3.0-g bLF significantly retarded adenomatous polyp growth in participants 63 years old or younger. Removal of adenomatous colorectal polyps is done as a preventative measure against colorectal cancer; however, polyps can be overlooked, and when detected, polypectomy is not always 100% effective in eradicating a polyp. Our study suggests that daily intake of 3.0 g of bLF could be a clinically beneficial adjunct to colorectal polyp extraction.

CT colonography: Friend or foe of practicing endoscopists

AIM

To investigate the perceived impact of computed tomographic colonography (CTC) on endoscopists' current and future practice.

METHODS

A 21-question survey was mailed to 1570 randomly chosen American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) members. Participants reported socio-demographics, colonoscopy volume, percentage of colonoscopies performed for screening, and likelihood of integration of CTC into their practice.

RESULTS

A total of 367 ASGE members (23%) returned the questionnaire. Respondents were predominantly male (> 90%) and white (83%) with an average age of 49 years. Most respondents (58%) had no plans to incorporate CTC into daily practice and only 7% had already incorporated CTC into daily practice. Private practice respondents were the least likely to incorporate this modality into their daily practice (P = 0.047). Forty-three percent of participants were willing to take courses on CTC reading, particularly those with the highest volume of colonoscopy (P = 0.049). Forty percent of participants were unsure of CTC's impact on future colonoscopy volume while 21% and 18% projected a decreased and increased volume, respectively. The estimated impact of CTC volume varied significantly by age (P = 0.002). Respondents > 60 years felt that CTC would increase colonoscopy, whereas those < 40 years thought CTC would ultimately decrease colonoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Practicing endoscopists are not enthusiastic about the incorporation of CTC into their daily practice and are unsure of its future impact on their practice.

Identifying cluster subtypes for intentions to have colorectal cancer screening among non-compliant intermediate-risk siblings of individuals with colorectal cancer

Although first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients diagnosed at an early age are at increased risk for CRC, their compliance with colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) is not high. Relatively little is known about why these intermediate-risk family members do not comply with CRCS. Study aims were to identify subgroups of siblings of individuals diagnosed with CRC prior to age 61 who were not compliant with CRCS using cluster analysis and to identify demographical, medical and attitudinal correlates of cluster membership. A total of 421 siblings completed measures of pros, cons, processes of change, CRCS knowledge, physician and family CRCS support, CRC risk, severity, preventability, curability, closeness with the affected sibling, distress about the sibling's cancer and screening intentions. Three clusters characterized as 'Positive about Screening', 'Uncertain about Screening' and 'Negative about Screening' were identified. External validation revealed that those in the Positive about Screening cluster reported significantly stronger CRCS intentions than those who are Uncertain about Screening and Negative about Screening clusters. Results provide an empirical typology for understanding motivations for CRCS among at-risk family members and may lead to the development of more effective interventions to improve screening uptake.

Missed opportunities to initiate endoscopic evaluation for colorectal cancer diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

Delayed diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most common reasons for ambulatory diagnostic malpractice claims in the United States. Our objective was to describe missed opportunities to diagnose CRC before endoscopic referral, in terms of patient characteristics, nature of clinical clues, and types of diagnostic-process breakdowns involved.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive, newly diagnosed cases of CRC between February 1999 and June 2007 at a tertiary health-care system in Texas. Two reviewers independently evaluated the electronic record of each patient using a standardized pretested data collection instrument. Missed opportunities were defined as care episodes in which endoscopic evaluation was not initiated despite the presence of one or more clues that warrant a diagnostic workup for CRC. Predictors of missed opportunities were evaluated in logistic regression. The types of breakdowns involved in the diagnostic process were also determined and described.

RESULTS

Of the 513 patients with CRC who met the inclusion criteria, both reviewers agreed on the presence of at least one missed opportunity in 161 patients. Among these patients there was a mean of 4.2 missed opportunities and 5.3 clues. The most common clues were suspected or confirmed iron deficiency anemia, positive fecal occult blood test, and hematochezia. The odds of a missed opportunity were increased in patients older than 75 years (odds ratio (OR)=2.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-4.1) or with iron deficiency anemia (OR=2.2; 95% CI 1.3-3.6), whereas the odds of a missed opportunity were lower in patients with abnormal flexible sigmoidoscopy (OR=0.06; 95% CI 0.01-0.51), or imaging suspicious for CRC (OR=0.3; 95% CI 0.1-0.9). Anemia was the clue associated with the longest time to endoscopic referral (median=393 days). Most process breakdowns occurred in the provider-patient clinical encounter and in the follow-up of patients or abnormal diagnostic test results.

CONCLUSIONS

Missed opportunities to initiate workup for CRC are common despite the presence of many clues suggestive of CRC diagnosis. Future interventions are needed to reduce the process breakdowns identified.

Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and personal practices regarding colorectal cancer screening among health care professionals in rural Colorado: a pilot survey

PURPOSE

This study reports the baseline knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and personal practices of health care professionals regarding colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in the High Plains Research Network (HPRN) of rural Colorado prior to a community-based educational intervention. It also examines the association between health care staff members' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and personal practices for CRC screening and patient screening levels by practice.

METHODS

Surveys were mailed to health care professionals in the HPRN. Participating clinics (n = 21) distributed patient surveys on CRC screening to persons aged > or =50 for a 2-week period in 2006.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 81% for providers (n = 46) and 90% for nursing staff (n = 63). Only 54% of health care professionals knew CRC is a leading cause of cancer deaths. When surveyed on their attitudes toward colon cancer, 92%"strongly agreed" or "agreed" that colon cancer is preventable. About 99% (n = 107) of providers and nurses "strongly agreed" or "agreed" that testing could identify problems before colon cancer starts. Most health care professionals (61%) aged > or =50 years had previously been tested and were up-to-date (52%) with screening. Provider knowledge was significantly associated with higher patient screening (P = .02), but provider attitudes and beliefs were not. Moreover, personal screening practices of health care professionals did not correlate with more patients screened.

CONCLUSION

Background knowledge of CRC among HPRN health care professionals could be improved. The RESULTS of this pilot study may help focus effective approaches such as increasing provider knowledge to enhance CRC screening in the relevant population.

A randomized trial of generic versus tailored interventions to increase colorectal cancer screening among intermediate risk siblings

BACKGROUND

Individuals with a sibling who has had colorectal cancer diagnosed before age 61 are at increased risk for colorectal cancer and may derive particular benefit from screening. Tailored interventions may increase participation in appropriate colorectal cancer screening.

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the efficacy of two tailored interventions and a generic print intervention.

METHODS

Participant siblings (N = 412) who were not up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening were randomly assigned to receive either a generic print pamphlet, a tailored print pamphlet, or a tailored print pamphlet and tailored counseling call. Colorectal cancer screening 6 months after the baseline interview was the outcome measure.

RESULTS

Results indicated that colorectal cancer screening adherence increased among intermediate risk siblings enrolled in all three intervention groups. Participants in both tailored intervention groups reported having colorectal cancer screening at significantly higher rates than participants in the generic print group. The increase in colorectal cancer screening in the tailored print and counseling call group was not significantly higher than that achieved by the tailored print alone. Decisional balance partially mediated treatment effects. Tailored behavioral interventions are effective methods for increasing screening adherence but telephone counseling did not add significantly to treatment effects.

Evaluation of image quality and lesion perception by human readers on 3D CT colonography: comparison of standard and low radiation dose

AIMS

We compared the prevalence of noise-related artefacts and lesion perception on three-dimensional (3D) CT colonography (CTC) at standard and low radiation doses.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients underwent CTC (64 x 0.625 mm collimation; tube rotation time 0.5 s; automatic tube current modulation: standard dose 40-160 mA, low dose 10-50 mA). Low- and standard-dose acquisitions were performed in the supine position, one after the other. The presence of artefacts (cobblestone and snow artefacts, irregularly delineated folds) and the presence of polyps were evaluated by five radiologists on 3D images at standard dose, the original low dose and a modified low dose, i.e. after manipulation of opacity on 3D.

RESULTS

The mean effective dose was 3.9 +/- 1.3 mSv at standard dose and 1.03 +/- 0.4 mSv at low dose. The number of images showing cobblestone artefacts and irregularly delineated folds at original and modified low doses was significantly higher than at standard dose (P < 0.0001). Most of the artefacts on modified low-dose images were mild. No significant difference in sensitivity between the dose levels was found for polyps > or =6 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduction of the effective dose to 1 mSv significantly affects image quality on 3D CTC, but the perception of > or =6 mm lesions is not significantly impaired.

International trends in colorectal cancer incidence rates

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have documented significant variations in colorectal cancer incidence rates and trends regionally and across countries. However, no study has examined the worldwide pattern using the most recently updated incidence data from the IARC.

METHODS

We obtained sex-specific colorectal cancer incidence for 1953-57 through 1998-2002 by cancer registry from Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5) databases. For 51 cancer registries with long-term incidence data, we assessed the change in the incidence rates over the past 20 years by calculating the ratio of the incidence rates in 1998-2002 to that in 1983-87.

RESULTS

Colorectal cancer incidence rates for both males and females statistically significantly increased from 1983-87 to 1998-2002 for 27 of 51 cancer registries considered in the analysis, largely confined to economically transitioning countries including Eastern European countries, most parts of Asia, and select countries of South America. These increases were more prominent for men than for women. We also observed substantial variations in colorectal cancer incidence trends within countries such as Japan. Similarly, trends in Israel and Singapore varied significantly according to ethnicity. The United States is the only country where colorectal cancer incidence rates declined in both males and females.

CONCLUSIONS

Colorectal cancer incidence rates continue to increase in economically transitioning countries, with incidence rates among men in the Czech Republic and Slovakia exceeding the peak incidence observed in the United States and other long-standing developed nations. Targeted prevention and early detection programs could help reverse the trend in these countries.

Intraoperative ultrasound in colorectal surgery

PURPOSE

To assess the accuracy of intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) as a localizing technique for colorectal resections, and its impact on surgical management.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients (15 men and 10 women; mean age, 74.4 years) with early cancers (p T1), or polyps, not amenable to endoscopic removal were selected. IOUS was used as a sole method of intraoperative localization. Its performance was evaluated through review of preoperative colonoscopy reports, intraoperative findings, histopathology reports, and clinical follow-up.

RESULTS

The lesions were situated in the cecum (n = 5), ascending colon (n = 3), transverse colon (n = 4), descending colon (n = 7), and rectum (n = 6). IOUS technique allowed correct localization in 24 of 25 patients, visualization of the bowel wall, and its penetration by malignant tumors. In rectal lesions, IOUS showed clearly the tumor and its margin, which facilitated performance sphincter-sparing procedure.

CONCLUSION

In patients with small polyps and early cancers of colon and rectum, IOUS may be effectively used as a sole method of intraoperative localization and provide additional information that may alter decision making with regard to surgical technique.

Comparison of three different iodine-based bowel regimens for CT colonography

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the computed tomographic colonography (CTC) image quality and patient acceptance of three iodine-based faecal tagging bowel preparations in 60 patients undergoing the following regimens: a 2-day regimen of meal-time administration of iodine and phospho-soda (GFPH); a 2-day regimen of meal-time mild laxative, followed by iodine administered 2 h before CTC (SD); and a 2-day regimen of meal-time administration of iodine (GF).

METHODS

Two independent radiologists assessed tagging quality; quantitative measures included the tagged stool density, and computer-aided detection (CAD) false-positive rate.

RESULTS

The GFPH and SD regimens provided better subjective quality than GF (p < 0.001). The latter regimen resulted in a higher proportion of insufficiently tagged segments: the measured average stool density was less than 200 HU in 10.7% in all segments vs 3.6% for SD and <0.5% for GFPH, respectively. Insufficient tagging occurred mostly in the ascending colon and the caecum. The CAD false-positive rate increased following the trend: GFPH < SD < GF (p = 0.00012). GFPH was worse tolerated than SD (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Considering preparation quality alone, GFPH was the best regimen, but SD provided the best balance between bowel preparation quality and patient acceptability.

Barrier-focused intervention to increase colonoscopy attendance among nonadherent high-risk populations

AIM: To increase attendance for colonoscopy among nonadherent high-risk individuals for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in China.

METHODS: During the first 12 mo without intervention, only 428 of the 2398 high-risk subjects attended a scheduled colonoscopy examination. The 1970 subjects who did not attend for CRC screening were enrolled in the present study. Prior barrier investigation was performed to ascertain the reasons for nonadherence. A barrier-focused intervention program was then established and implemented among eligible nonadherent subjects by telephone interviews and on-site consultations. The completion rates of colonoscopy during the first 12 mo without intervention and the second 12 mo with intervention were compared. Variations in the effect of the intervention on some high-risk factors and barrier characteristics were analyzed using logistic regression.

RESULTS: 540 subjects who were not eligible were excluded from the study. The colonoscopy attendance rate was 23.04% (428/1858) during the first 12 mo without intervention, and 37.69% (539/1430) during the second 12 mo with intervention (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the intervention was more effective among subjects with only objective barriers (OR: 34.590, 95% CI: 23.204-51.563) or subjects with some specific high-risk characteristics: first-degree relatives diagnosed with CRC (OR: 1.778, 95% CI: 1.010-3.131), personal history of intestinal polyps (OR: 3.815, 95% CI: 1.994-7.300) and positive result for immunochemical fecal occult blood testing (OR: 2.718, 95% CI: 1.479-4.996).

CONCLUSION: The barrier-focused telephone or on-site consultation intervention appears to be a feasible means to improve colonoscopy attendance among nonadherent high-risk subjects for CRC screening in China.

Intact and cleaved forms of the urokinase receptor enhance discrimination of cancer from non-malignant conditions in patients presenting with symptoms related to colorectal cancer

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in developed countries. It is known that early detection results in improved survival, and consequently there is a need for improved diagnostic tools in CRC. The plasma level of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) was proposed as a marker in CRC patients. This study was undertaken to evaluate the individual molecular forms of suPAR as discriminators in a group of patients undergoing endoscopical examination following symptoms related to colorectal cancer.

Methods:

In a case–control study comprising 308 patients undergoing endoscopical examination following CRC-related symptoms, 77 CRC patients with adenocarcinoma were age and gender matched to: 77 patients with adenomas; 77 with other non-malignant findings, and 77 with no findings. The different uPAR forms were measured in citrate plasma collected before endoscopical examination, using three different Time Resolved – Fluorescence Immuno Assays (TR-FIA's).

Results:

All soluble uPAR forms were found to be significantly higher in cancer patients than in patients presenting with other non-malignant findings; uPAR(I) P=0.0006, suPAR(I–III) P<0.0001 and suPAR(I–III)+(II–III) P<0.0001, whereas no significant difference was found when performing similar comparisons for patients presenting with adenomas. The odds ratio (OR) for the comparison of uPAR(I) in patients with CRC to subjects with other non-malignant findings was 3.44 (95% CI:1.86–6.37). CRC patients had a mean elevated level of 20.9% (95% CI:10.2–32.6) for suPAR(I–III) and 18.5% (95% CI:9.0–28.8) for suPAR(I–III)+(II–III) compared with subjects with non-malignant findings.

Conclusions:

The findings confirm reports on increased uPAR expression in cancer patients and in particular elevated levels of suPAR in blood from CRC patients and indicate that suPAR levels in blood are increasing during carcinogenesis. Although none of the measured uPAR forms were cancer specific, our findings suggest that uPAR expression could be useful in the early detection of CRC when combined with other markers and clinical variables.

Using the results of a baseline and a surveillance colonoscopy to predict recurrent adenomas with high-risk characteristics

BACKGROUND

Suggested intervals for postpolypectomy surveillance colonoscopy are currently based on the adenoma findings from the most recent examination.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the risk for clinically significant adenoma recurrence on the basis of the results of 2 previous colonoscopies.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic and private centers in North America.

PATIENTS

Participants in an adenoma chemoprevention trial in which all participants had 1 or more adenoma found on complete colonoscopy at entry. For this analysis, only participants whose qualifying adenoma was their first were included. All participants then underwent second and third study colonoscopies at roughly 3-year intervals.

MEASUREMENTS

Proportion of patients with high-risk findings at the third study colonoscopy--either at least 1 advanced (> or = 1 cm or advanced histology) adenoma or multiple (> or = 3) adenomas.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight of 564 participants (10.3%) had high-risk findings at the third study examination. If the second examination showed high-risk findings, then results from the first examination added no significant information about the probability of high-risk findings on the third examination (18.2% for high-risk findings on the first examination vs. 20.0% for low-risk findings on the first examination; P = 0.78). If the second examination showed no adenomas, then the results from the first examination added significant information about the probability of high-risk findings on the third examination (12.3% if the first examination had high-risk findings vs. 4.9% if the first examination had low-risk findings; P = 0.015).

LIMITATION

This observational study cannot specifically examine adenoma recurrence risk at intervals suggested for patients with low-risk adenomas (for example, 5 years vs. 10 years).

CONCLUSION

Information from 2 previous examinations may help identify low-risk populations that benefit little from intense surveillance. Surveillance guidelines might be tailored in selected patients to use information from 2 previous examinations, not just the most recent one.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

National Institutes of Health.

Sensitivity of CT colonography for nonpolypoid colorectal lesions interpreted by human readers and with computer-aided detection

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of our study was to determine the sensitivity of CT colonography (CTC) interpreted by human readers and with computer-aided detection (CAD) for genuinely nonpolypoid colorectal lesions, defined as 2 mm or less in lesion height at colonoscopy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A computerized database search for a 33-month period found 21 patients who had undergone both colonoscopy and CTC and who had a total of 23 genuinely nonpolypoid colorectal lesions: eight adenomas (9-30 mm in width), 10 stage Tis or T1 adenocarcinomas (10-25 mm), and five nonadenomatous lesions (8-20 mm). CTC was performed using a cathartic preparation and fecal tagging and was interpreted by experienced readers in a blinded manner using a primary 3D method and with CAD.

RESULTS

The sensitivities of human readers for nonpolypoid adenomatous lesions (i.e., both adenomas and adenocarcinomas), adenocarcinomas, and nonadenomatous lesions were 66.7% (12/18), 90% (9/10), and 0% (0/5), respectively. Sensitivities were 55.6% (10/18), 90% (9/10), and 0% (0/5) for CAD. A 10-mm stage T1 adenocarcinoma was missed by a human reader on blinded review but was detected with CAD. Both human readers and CAD yielded significantly higher sensitivity for adenomatous lesions than for nonadenomatous lesions (p = 0.014 and 0.046, respectively) and for adenocarcinomas than for noncancerous lesions (p = 0.003 and 0.0001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

CTC showed a high sensitivity for nonpolypoid stage Tis and T1 adenocarcinomas 10 mm or greater in width despite the limited overall sensitivity for nonpolypoid adenomatous lesions, when performed using cathartic preparation and fecal tagging.

Colorectal cancer screening with CT colonography: key concepts regarding polyp prevalence, size, histology, morphology, and natural history

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to provide a timely update on a variety of key polyp topics to construct a proper framework for physicians who are interested in providing CT colonography screening as a clinical service.

CONCLUSION

As the medical community considers the expansion of CT colonography for screening, we believe it is prudent to update and review several key concepts regarding colorectal polyps. In particular, it is important to replace the older literature derived from high-risk and symptomatic cohorts with the wealth of newer and more applicable data from average-risk and asymptomatic screening cohorts. Familiarity with current concepts regarding flat (nonpolypoid) lesions and the natural history of small colorectal polyps is also vital to the effective application of this technique.

An appendiceal neoplastic lesion: case report and implications for colonoscopic screening and surveillance

A 65-year-old man with a history of previously resected colonic adenomas had an apparent cecal lesion detected during colonoscopy. The polyp proved to be a tubulovillous adenoma with high-grade dysplasia involving most of the body of the appendix along with the base of the cecum. The appendiceal mucosa is biologically similar to the colonic mucosa, yet remains relatively 'hidden' in screening and surveillance studies, which suggests important implications for evolving detection strategies in the follow-up of patients with a previous colon polyp or cancer resections. Although endoscopic removal of the appendix has been reported, treatment of these localized appendiceal lesions requires a wide surgical excision.

Individualizing colonoscopy screening by sex and race

BACKGROUND

There is increasing discussion whether colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines should be individualized by sex and race.

OBJECTIVES

To determine individualized colonoscopic screening guidelines by sex and race for the average-risk population and to compare the cost-effectiveness of this approach with that of uniform guidelines for all.

DESIGN

We used the MISCAN-Colon microsimulation model to estimate life expectancy and lifetime CRC screening and treatment costs in a U.S. cohort of black and white men and women at average risk for CRC. We compared the base-case strategy of no screening and 3 competing colonoscopy strategies: (1) the currently recommended "uniform 10-yearly colonoscopy from age 50 years," (2) a shorter interval "uniform 8-yearly colonoscopy from age 51 years," and (3) "individualized screening according to sex and race."

RESULTS

The base-case strategy of no screening was the least expensive, yet least effective. The uniform 10-yearly colonoscopy strategy was dominated. The uniform 8-yearly colonoscopy and individualized strategies both increased life expectancy by 0.0433 to 0.0435 years per individual, at a cost of $15,565 to $15,837 per life-year gained. In the individualized strategy, blacks began screening 6 years earlier, with a 1-year shorter interval compared with whites. The individualized policies were essentially the same for men and women, because the higher CRC risk in men was offset by their shorter life expectancy. The results were robust for changes in model assumptions.

CONCLUSIONS

The improvements in costs and effects of individualizing CRC screening on a population level were only marginal. Individualized guidelines, however, could contribute to decreasing disparities between blacks and whites. The acceptability and feasibility of individualized guidelines, therefore, should be explored.

Management of small polyps detected by screening CT colonography: patient and physician preferences

BACKGROUND

Management of small polyps found on computed tomography (CT) colonography is controversial and critical to both cancer outcomes and cost. Patient and physician behavior are influenced by personal beliefs and prior experience. Thus, we aimed to understand patient and physician preferences after finding polyps on CT colonography.

METHODS

Patients were given a validated handout and survey asking for their preference for evaluation of a "pea-sized" polyp found on CT colonography. By using an Internet survey, physicians were asked how they would manage a 5-mm, 8-mm, or 12-mm polyp, or three 5-mm polyps found by CT colonography in a hypothetical 52-year-old patient of average colorectal cancer risk. Survey reliability was assessed using Cronbach's coefficient alpha.

RESULTS

Of the 305 patient respondents, 95% wanted to know if the polyp found on CT colonography was precancerous, 86% stated they would request endoscopic evaluation, and 85% wanted polypectomy. Of the 277 primary care physicians, 71% would refer a 5-mm sigmoid polyp for endoscopy, 86% would refer an 8-mm polyp, 97% would refer a 12-mm polyp, and 91% would refer three 5-mm polyps. Of the 461 gastroenterologists, 83% would refer a 5-mm sigmoid polyp for endoscopy, 96% would refer an 8-mm polyp, 97% would refer a 12-mm polyp, and 93% would refer three 5-mm polyps. Overall, 75% of physicians indicated the fear of missing a precancerous lesion would prompt referral for colonoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Both patients and physicians overwhelmingly preferred to follow up small polyps identified by CT colonography with endoscopy, suggesting that population-based CT colonography screening programs in which polyps are not removed might require significant patient and physician education before implementation.

In defense of body CT

OBJECTIVE

Rapid technical developments and an expanding list of applications that have supplanted less accurate or more invasive diagnostic tests have led to a dramatic increase in the use of body CT in medical practice since its introduction in 1975. Our purpose here is to discuss medical justification of the small potential risk associated with the ionizing radiation used in CT and to provide perspectives on practice-specific decisions that can maximize overall patient benefit. In addition, we review available dose management and optimization techniques.

CONCLUSION

Dose reduction strategies described in this article must be well understood and properly used, but also require broad-based practice strategies that extend beyond the CT scanner console and default, generic manufacturer settings. In the final analysis, physicians must request the imaging examination that best addresses the specific medical question without allowing worries about radiation to dissuade them or their patients from obtaining needed CT examinations. Ongoing efforts to ensure that CT examinations are both medically justified and optimally performed must continue, and education must be provided to the medical community and general public that put both the potential risks--and benefits--of CT examinations into proper perspective.

Incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer in Puerto Rico and among Hispanics, non-Hispanic whites, and non-Hispanic blacks in the United States, 1998-2002

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Puerto Rico (PR). In the United States, the incidence and mortality rates of CRC have great variation by sex and race/ethnicity. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of CRC in PR were assessed and compared with the rates among US Hispanics (USH), non-Hispanic whites (NHW), and non-Hispanic blacks (NHB) in the United States for the period from 1998 through 2002. Incidence and mortality trends and relative differences among racial/ethnic groups by sex and age were determined.

METHODS

Age-standardized rates using the world standard population (ASR[World]) were based on cancer incidence and mortality data from the PR Central Cancer Registry and from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program using the direct method. The annual percentage changes (APC) and relative risks (RR) were calculated using Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

During 1998 through 2002, the APC of CRC incidence and mortality increased for men in PR, whereas descending trends were observed for other racial/ethnic groups. Overall period rates indicated that, in both sexes, Puerto Ricans had CRC incidence and mortality rates similar to those for USH, but their rates were lower than those for NHW and NHB. However, Puerto Rican men and women ages 40 years to 59 years had the greatest risk of incidence and mortality compared with their USH counterparts.

CONCLUSIONS

Areas of concern include the increasing trends of CRC in PR and the higher burden of the disease among young Puerto Ricans compared with the USH population. The authors concluded that further research should be performed to guide the design and implementation of CRC prevention and education programs in PR.

Early detection of and screening for colorectal neoplasia

There are approximately one million new cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) per year worldwide, with substantial associated morbidity and mortality. The long natural history of colorectal neoplasia affords the opportunity to use preventive measures to improve survival in this disease. Currently screening for adenomatous polyps and early-stage cancers is the best methodology for improving survival. The increasing knowledge of CRC pathogenesis and its natural history is allowing the development of new tools to identify patients who will benefit most from colon cancer screening and the defining of appropriate surveillance intervals. The guidelines for screening for colorectal neoplasia have recently been substantially revised by several organizations based on developing technologies and a growing body of data on the efficacy of CRC screening.

Colorectal cancer incidence in the United States, 1999-2004 : an updated analysis of data from the National Program of Cancer Registries and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program

BACKGROUND

: By using recent national cancer surveillance data, the authors investigated colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence by subpopulation to inform the discussion of demographic-based CRC guidelines.

METHODS

: Data included CRC incidence (1999-2004) from the combined National Program of Cancer Registries and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program databases. Incidence rates (age-specific and age-adjusted to the 2000 US standard population) were reported among individuals ages 40 to 44 years, 45 to 49 years, 50 to 64 years, and > or =65 years by sex, subsite, disease stage, race, and ethnicity. Rate ratios (RR) and rate differences (RD) were calculated to compare CRC rates in different subpopulations.

RESULTS

: Incidence rates were greater among men compared with women and among blacks compared with whites and other races. Incidence rates among Asians/Pacific Islanders (APIs), American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs), and Hispanics consistently were lower than among whites and non-Hispanics. Sex disparities were greatest in the population aged > or =65 years, whereas racial disparities were more pronounced in the population aged <65 years. Although the RD between blacks and whites diminished at older ages, the RD between APIs and whites, between AI/ANs and whites, and between non-Hispanics and Hispanics increased with increasing age. By subsite, blacks had the highest incidence rates compared with whites and other races in the proximal and distal colon; the reverse was true in the rectum. By stage, whites had higher incidence rates than blacks and other races for localized and regional disease; for distant and unstaged disease, blacks had higher incidence rates than whites.

CONCLUSIONS

: The current findings suggested differences that can be considered in formulating targeted screening and other public health strategies to reduce disparities in CRC incidence in the United States. Cancer 2009. Published 2009 by the American Cancer Society.

Gender as a risk factor for advanced neoplasia and colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Studies have reported higher rates of advanced colorectal neoplasia in men than in women. We performed a meta-analysis to provide a quantitative pooled risk estimate of the association between gender and advanced colorectal neoplasia.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review to identify studies of average risk and asymptomatic individuals undergoing screening colonoscopy. We also included studies of subjects with a family history of colorectal neoplasia. We used random effects models to evaluate pooled relative risk estimates and performed heterogeneity and publication bias analyses. The primary outcome measure was relative risk of advanced neoplasia in men compared with women. A secondary outcome measure was relative risk for colorectal cancer.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies consisting of 18 different populations were included, comprising 924,932 men and women. The pooled relative risk estimate for advanced neoplasia for men compared with women was 1.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.69 -1.97). This positive association between gender and advanced neoplasia was significant across all age groups from 40 to older than 70 years. In 5 studies, the relative risk estimate for cancer for men compared with women was 2.02 (95% CI, 1.53-2.66). Significant heterogeneity was found for the overall analysis and for studies reporting on cancer but not for studies thate xcluded subjects with a family history or for those analyses grouped by age.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis provides strong evidence that men are at greater risk for advanced colorectal neoplasia across all age groups. This might inform decisions to create sex-specific colorectal cancer screening recommendations.

Colon, rectal, and anal cancers

OBJECTIVES

To review the incidence, risk factors, staging, diagnosis, and treatment of colon, rectal, and anal cancers, as well as nursing care associated with managing patients diagnosed with these malignancies.

DATA SOURCES

Published research reports, epidemiologic data, published patient management guidelines, and institution-based clinical tools.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant advances in the management of colon, rectal, and anal cancers in the past decade have extended patient survival. Further clinical research will refine current therapeutic strategies and treatment decision-making aids while minimizing symptoms of disease and treatment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses need to be familiar with risk factors, disease course, and current and emerging therapies to assist patients with treatment decision-making, and to anticipate and intervene in managing disease and treatment-induced problems. Early identification and management of distressing symptoms can help to avoid life-threatening effects and promote patient adherence to prescribed therapies; timely patient/family education may minimize anxiety and promote self-management.

Screening HIV-infected patients for non-AIDS-defining malignancies

The use of antiretroviral therapy has reduced mortality and shifted the spectrum of malignancies affecting people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). We review guidelines and evidence for screening PLWH for non-AIDS-defining malignancies as compared with the general population. Cervical cancer screening clearly differs for HIV-seropositive women, with two Pap tests 6 months apart in the first year and then annually if normal. The role of cervical human papillomavirus screening has not yet been defined in HIV-seropositive women. Anal cancer screening consists of an annual digital rectal examination, and some (but not all) guidelines also recommend annual anal Pap tests. Screening for breast and colorectal cancer should follow standard, age-appropriate screening recommendations that apply to the general population. Screening HIV-infected men for prostate cancer, as with the general population, lacks a clear benefit. Despite increasing rates of hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancers among PLWH, there is insufficient evidence to support routine screening.

Patient satisfaction with colonoscopy: a literature review and pilot study

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend that colonoscopic colorectal cancer screening be undertaken every 10 years after the age of 50 years. However, because the procedure does not meet criteria that promote screening uptake, patient satisfaction with colonoscopy may encourage repeat screening.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the literature and conduct a pilot study of patient satisfaction with the colonoscopy experience.

METHODS

All cohort studies from January 1997 to August 2008 in the MEDLINE database that measured either patient satisfaction with colonoscopy, patient willingness to return for colonoscopy under the same conditions or patient preference for colonoscopy compared with other large bowel procedures were identified. The search was supplemented by journal citation lists in the retrieved articles.

RESULTS

Of the 29 studies identified, 15 met the inclusion criteria. Consistently, the vast majority of patients (approximately 95%) were very satisfied with their colonoscopy experience. Patient satisfaction was similar for screening and nonscreening colonoscopy. Patient willingness to return for the procedure ranged from 73% to 100%. Of the five studies that examined modality preference, three studies reported the majority of patients preferred colonography to colonoscopy and two studies reported the reverse. Our pilot study findings mirrored those of other studies that were conducted in the United States. The major limitation of the included studies was that patients who were most dissatisfied may have gone elsewhere to have their colonoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients were very satisfied with colonoscopy. The majority were willing to return for repeat testing under the same conditions, and colonoscopy was not preferred over other modalities. However, studies were limited by methodological shortcomings.

CT colonography to screen for colorectal cancer and aortic aneurysm in the Medicare population: cost-effectiveness analysis

OBJECTIVE

CT colonography (CTC) is a recommended test for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening according to the updated 2008 American Cancer Society guidelines. CTC can also accurately detect abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). This collaborative gastroenterology-radiology project evaluated the cost-effectiveness and clinical efficacy of CTC in the Medicare population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A computerized Markov model simulated the development of CRC and AAA in a hypothetical cohort of 100,000 U.S. adults > or = 65 years old. Screening with CTC at 5- and 10-year intervals using a 6-mm size threshold for polypectomy was compared with primary optical colonoscopy screening every 10 years and with no screening. Base case costs for CTC and optical colonoscopy were $674 and $795, respectively. The costs of the imaging workup for extracolonic findings at CTC were also included.

RESULTS

CTC resulted in 7,786 and 7,027 life-years gained at 5- and 10-year intervals, respectively, compared with 6,032 life-years gained with 10-year optical colonoscopy. The increase in overall efficacy with CTC was primarily due to prevention of AAA rupture because CRC prevention and CRC detection rates were similar for CTC and optical colonoscopy. All three strategies were highly cost-effective compared with no screening, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $6,088, $1,251, and $1,104 per life-year gained for 5-year CTC, 10-year CTC, and 10-year optical colonoscopy strategies, respectively. The ICER of 5-year CTC and 10-year CTC versus optical colonoscopy was $23,234 and $2,144 per life-year gained, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Because of its ability to simultaneously screen for both CRC and AAA, CTC is a highly cost-effective and clinically efficacious screening strategy for the Medicare population.

Methylation of TFPI2 in stool DNA: a potential novel biomarker for the detection of colorectal cancer

We have used a gene expression array-based strategy to identify the methylation of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2), a potential tumor suppressor gene, as a frequent event in human colorectal cancers (CRC). TFPI2 belongs to the recently described group of embryonic cell Polycomb group (PcG)-marked genes that may be predisposed to aberrant DNA methylation in early stages of colorectal carcinogenesis. Aberrant methylation of TFPI2 was detected in almost all CRC adenomas (97%, n = 56) and stages I to IV CRCs (99%, n = 115). We further explored the potential of TFPI2 as a biomarker for the early detection of CRC using stool DNA-based assays in patients with nonmetastatic CRC and average-risk noncancer controls who were candidates for screening. TFPI2 methylation was detected in stool DNA from stage I to III CRC patients with a sensitivity of 76% to 89% and a specificity of 79% to 93%. Detection of TFPI2 methylation in stool DNA may act as a useful adjunct to the noninvasive strategies for screening of CRCs in the future.

Cumulative incidence of false-positive results in repeated, multimodal cancer screening

PURPOSE

Multiple cancer screening tests have been advocated for the general population; however, clinicians and patients are not always well-informed of screening burdens. We sought to determine the cumulative risk of a false-positive screening result and the resulting risk of a diagnostic procedure for an individual participating in a multimodal cancer screening program.

METHODS

Data were analyzed from the intervention arm of the ongoing Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, a randomized controlled trial to determine the effects of prostate, lung, colorectal, and ovarian cancer screening on disease-specific mortality. The 68,436 participants, aged 55 to 74 years, were randomized to screening or usual care. Women received serial serum tests to detect cancer antigen 125 (CA-125), transvaginal sonograms, posteroanterior-view chest radiographs, and flexible sigmoidoscopies. Men received serial chest radiographs, flexible sigmoidoscopies, digital rectal examinations, and serum prostate-specific antigen tests. Fourteen screening examinations for each sex were possible during the 3-year screening period.

RESULTS

After 14 tests, the cumulative risk of having at least 1 false-positive screening test is 60.4% (95% CI, 59.8%-61.0%) for men, and 48.8% (95% CI, 48.1%-49.4%) for women. The cumulative risk after 14 tests of undergoing an invasive diagnostic procedure prompted by a false-positive test is 28.5% (CI, 27.8%-29.3%) for men and 22.1% (95% CI, 21.4%-22.7%) for women.

CONCLUSIONS

For an individual in a multimodal cancer screening trial, the risk of a false-positive finding is about 50% or greater by the 14th test. Physicians should educate patients about the likelihood of false positives and resulting diagnostic interventions when counseling about cancer screening.

Circulating methylated SEPT9 DNA in plasma is a biomarker for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The presence of aberrantly methylated SEPT9 DNA in plasma is highly correlated with the occurrence of colorectal cancer. We report the development of a new SEPT9 biomarker assay and its validation in case-control studies. The development of such a minimally invasive blood-based test may help to reduce the current gap in screening coverage.

METHODS

A new SEPT9 DNA methylation assay was developed for plasma. The assay comprised plasma DNA extraction, bisulfite conversion of DNA, purification of bisulfite-converted DNA, quantification of converted DNA by real-time PCR, and measurement of SEPT9 methylation by real-time PCR. Performance of the SEPT9 assay was established in a study of 97 cases with verified colorectal cancer and 172 healthy controls as verified by colonoscopy. Performance based on predetermined algorithms was validated in an independent blinded study with 90 cases and 155 controls.

RESULTS

The SEPT9 assay workflow yielded 1.9 microg/L (CI 1.3-3.0) circulating plasma DNA following bisulfite conversion, a recovery of 45%-50% of genomic DNA, similar to yields in previous studies. The SEPT9 assay successfully identified 72% of cancers at a specificity of 93% in the training study and 68% of cancers at a specificity of 89% in the testing study.

CONCLUSIONS

Circulating methylated SEPT9 DNA, as measured in the new (m)SEPT9 assay, is a valuable biomarker for minimally invasive detection of colorectal cancer. The new assay is amenable to automation and standardized use in the clinical laboratory.

CT colonography: techniques and applications

CT colonography (CTC), also termed virtual colonoscopy, is increasingly accepted at sites throughout the world as a new effective tool for the diagnosis and screening of colorectal carcinoma. This article presents information of related issues of bowel cleansing, stool and fluid tagging, bowel distention and multidetector CT scanning parameters. The author presents discussion of interpretation of CTC, appropriate applications of CTC and potential complications.

The views of gastroenterologists about the role of nurse endoscopists, especially in colorectal cancer screening

BACKGROUND

Nurse endoscopists may provide a solution for the insufficient endoscopic capacity in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening.

AIM

To determine the views of gastroenterologists about the potential role of nurse endoscopists in gastrointestinal endoscopy.

METHODS

A postal questionnaire was sent to all registered gastroenterologists (n = 301) and gastroenterology residents (n = 79) in the Netherlands.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty five of 380 (62%) gastroenterologists and residents completed the questionnaire. Overall, 48% were positive towards introduction of nurse endoscopists, whereas 18% were neutral and 34% negative. Respondents expected no major differences in endoscopic quality between physicians and nurse endoscopists. Nevertheless, 69% expected that patient experiences would be better met by physicians. Multivariate analysis showed that actual experience with nurse endoscopists and beliefs that nurse endoscopists are able to provide adequate endoscopic quality and good patient experiences, were independent predictors for a positive attitude towards introduction of nurse endoscopists [OR 6.6 (2.3-18.4), OR 1.9 (1.2-3.5) and OR 2.1 (1.2-2.9), respectively]. Respectively 89% and 66% of the respondents considered sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy for CRC screening as appropriate procedures to be performed by nurse endoscopists. Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopies were considered less appropriate.

CONCLUSION

A majority of gastroenterologists have a positive attitude towards introduction of nurse endoscopists, especially for CRC screening endoscopies.

Clinical trial design and evidence-based outcomes in the study of liver diseases

Current medical training often does not include the formal study of trial design, forcing clinicians to acquire this knowledge independently. This article reviews the foundational elements of clinical trial design. An overarching hierarchy of clinical evidence is introduced, and the relative strengths and limitations of the major types of study designs are discussed. A corollary to the hierarchy of evidence in trial designs is proposed for trial outcomes: the "pyramid of endpoints." This pyramid represents a spectrum of outcomes from tangible health events to intermediate markers with no direct physical impact on an individual. The potential advantages and difficulties inherent in the use of surrogate endpoints for final health outcomes are explored. Randomized controlled trials utilizing "hard" clinical endpoints are advocated as the most efficient and reliable way to directly assess the benefits and harms of a therapy; however, using a case study of treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma, we highlight the challenges that can complicate even the highest levels of evidence. All trials have a "signal-to-noise" ratio - this review emphasizes the need for careful and deliberate consideration of the potential limitations of every study, and provides basic tools to assist the practitioner in identifying common pitfalls of clinical trials.

Using a multifaceted approach to improve the follow-up of positive fecal occult blood test results

OBJECTIVES

Inadequate follow-up of abnormal fecal occult blood test (FOBT) results occurs in several types of practice settings. Our institution implemented multifaceted quality improvement (QI) activities in 2004-2005 to improve follow-up of FOBT-positive results. Activities addressed precolonoscopy referral processes and system-level factors such as electronic communication, provider education, and feedback. We evaluated their effects on timeliness and appropriateness of positive-FOBT follow-up and identified factors that affect colonoscopy performance.

METHODS

Retrospective electronic medical record review was used to determine outcomes before and after QI activities in a multispecialty ambulatory clinic of a tertiary care Veterans Affairs facility and its affiliated satellite clinics. From 1869 FOBT-positive cases, 800 were randomly selected from time periods before and after QI activities. Two reviewers used a pretested standardized data collection form to determine whether colonoscopy was appropriate or indicated based on predetermined criteria and if so, the timeliness of colonoscopy referral and performance before and after QI activities.

RESULTS

In cases where a colonoscopy was indicated, the proportion of patients who received a timely colonoscopy referral and performance were significantly higher post-implementation (60.5% vs. 31.7%, P<0.0001 and 11.4% vs. 3.4%, P=0.0005). A significant decrease also resulted in median times to referral and performance (6 vs. 19 days, P<0.0001 and 96.5 vs. 190 days, P<0.0001) and in the proportion of positive-FOBT test results that had received no follow-up by the time of chart review (24.3% vs. 35.9%, P=0.0045). Significant predictors of absence of the performance of an indicated colonoscopy included performance of a non-colonoscopy procedure such as barium enema or flexible sigmoidoscopy (OR=16.9; 95% CI, 1.9-145.1), patient non-adherence (OR=33.9; 95% CI, 17.3-66.6), not providing an appropriate provisional diagnosis on the consultation (OR=17.9; 95% CI, 11.3-28.1), and gastroenterology service not rescheduling colonoscopies after an initial cancellation (OR=11.0; 95% CI, 5.1-23.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Multifaceted QI activities improved rates of timely colonoscopy referral and performance in an electronic medical record system. However, colonoscopy was not indicated in over one third of patients with positive FOBTs, raising concerns about current screening practices and the appropriate denominator used for performance measurement standards related to colon cancer screening.