Systematic review of colorectal cancer screening guidelines for average-risk adults: Summarizing the current global recommendations

Incidence, mortality, survival, risk factor and screening of colorectal cancer: A comparison among China, Europe, and northern America

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. China, Europe and northern America account for more than half of the new CRC cases and associated deaths globally. This review summarizes the current status and temporal trends of CRC in China, Europe, and northern America. The potential primary preventive strategies and latest advances in CRC screening techniques and programs are discussed. Recently, the incidence and mortality of CRC in some European and northern American countries have decreased; conversely, CRC incidence and mortality continue to increase in China. The overall 5-year relative survival rate for CRC is similar between these regions, but there is considerable heterogeneity among European countries. Implementing population-based CRC screening programs can effectively address the growing disease burden. The effectiveness of nationwide CRC screening programs in these regions has been limited by relatively low coverage and participation rate. The deployment of state-of-the-art techniques and precise risk-adapted screening strategies incorporating effective risk prediction models and screening techniques may boost screening effectiveness. Our review provides novel foundations for the development and optimization of CRC preventive strategies.

Women require routine opioids to prevent painful colonoscopies: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Women are at high risk for painful colonoscopy. Pain, but also sedation, are barriers to colorectal cancer (CRC) screening participation. In a randomised controlled trial, we compared on-demand with pre-colonoscopy opioid administration to control pain in women at CRC screening age.

METHODS

Women, aged 55-79 years, attending colonoscopy at two Norwegian endoscopy units were randomised 1:1:1 to (1) fentanyl on-demand, (2) fentanyl prior to colonoscopy, or (3) alfentanil on-demand. The primary endpoint was procedural pain reported by the patients on a validated four-point Likert scale and further dichotomized for the study into painful (moderate or severe pain) and non-painful (slight or no pain) colonoscopy. Secondary endpoints were: willingness to repeat colonoscopy, adverse events, cecal intubation time and rate, and post-procedure recovery time.

RESULTS

Between June 2017 and May 2020, 183 patients were included in intention-to-treat analyses in the fentanyl on-demand group, 177 in the fentanyl prior to colonoscopy group, and 179 in the alfentanil on-demand group. Fewer women receiving fentanyl prior to colonoscopy reported a painful colonoscopy compared to those who were given fentanyl on-demand (25.2% vs. 44.1%, p < .001). There was no difference in the proportion of painful colonoscopies between fentanyl on-demand and alfentanil on-demand (44.1% vs. 39.5%, p = .40). No differences were observed for adverse events or any of the other secondary endpoints between the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Fentanyl prior to colonoscopy provided better pain control than fentanyl or alfentanil on-demand. Fentanyl before colonoscopy should be recommended to all women at screening age. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01538550). Norwegian Medicines Agency (16/16266-13). EU Clinical Trials Register (EUDRACTNR. 2016-005090-13).

Stemness, Inflammation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Colorectal Carcinoma: The Intricate Network

In global cancer statistics, colorectal carcinoma (CRC) ranks third by incidence and second by mortality, causing 10.0% of new cancer cases and 9.4% of oncological deaths worldwide. Despite the development of screening programs and preventive measures, there are still high numbers of advanced cases. Multiple problems compromise the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, one of these being cancer stem cells—a minor fraction of pluripotent, self-renewing malignant cells capable of maintaining steady, low proliferation and exhibiting an intriguing arsenal of treatment resistance mechanisms. Currently, there is an increasing body of evidence for intricate associations between inflammation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells. In this review, we focus on inflammation and its role in CRC stemness development through epithelial–mesenchymal transition.

Colorectal Cancer Detected by Machine Learning Models Using Conventional Laboratory Test Data

Background: Current diagnostic methods for colorectal cancer (CRC) are colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, which are invasive and complex procedures with possible complications. This study aimed to determine models for CRC identification that involve minimally invasive, affordable, portable, and accurate screening variables. Methods: This was a retrospective study that used data from electronic medical records of patients with CRC and healthy individuals between July 2017 and June 2018. Laboratory data, including liver enzymes, lipid profiles, complete blood counts, and tumor biomarkers, were extracted from the electronic medical records. Five machine learning models (logistic regression, random forest, k-nearest neighbors, support vector machine [SVM], and naïve Bayes) were used to identify CRC. The performances were evaluated using the areas under the curve (AUCs), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPV), and negative predictive values (NPV). Results: A total of 1164 electronic medical records (CRC patients: 582; healthy controls: 582) were included. The logistic regression model achieved the highest performance in identifying CRC (AUC: 0.865, sensitivity: 89.5%, specificity: 83.5%, PPV: 84.4%, NPV: 88.9%). The first four weighted features in the model were carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), hemoglobin (HGB), lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). A diagnostic model for CRC was established based on the four indicators, with an AUC of 0.849 (0.840-0.860) for identifying all CRC patients, and it performed best in discriminating patients with late colon cancer from healthy individuals with an AUC of 0.905 (0.889-0.929). Conclusions: The logistic regression model based on CEA, HGB, Lp(a), and HDL might be a powerful, noninvasive, and cost-effective method to identify CRC.

Change in Colorectal Cancer Tests Submitted for Reimbursement in Switzerland 2012-2018: Evidence from Claims Data of a Large Insurance

Objectives: Guidelines recommend colorectal cancer (CRC) screening by fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or colonoscopy. In 2013, Switzerland introduced reimbursement of CRC screening by mandatory health insurance for 50-69-years-olds, after they met their deductible. We hypothesized that the 2013 reimbursement policy increased testing rate.

Methods: In claims data from a Swiss insurance, we determined yearly CRC testing rate among 50-75-year-olds (2012–2018) and the association with socio-demographic, insurance-, and health-related covariates with multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models. We tested for interaction of age (50–69/70–75) on testing rate over time.

Results: Among insurees (2012:355′683; 2018:348′526), yearly CRC testing rate increased from 2012 to 2018 (overall: 8.1–9.9%; colonoscopy: 5.0–7.6%; FOBT: 3.1–2.3%). Odds ratio (OR) were higher for 70–75-year-olds (2012: 1.16, 95%CI 1.13–1.20; 2018: 1.05, 95%CI 1.02–1.08). Deductible interacted with changes in testing rate over time (p < 0.001). The increase in testing rate was proportionally higher among 50-69-years-olds than 70-75-year-olds over the years.

Conclusions: CRC testing rate in Switzerland increased from 2012 to 2018, particularly among 50-69-years-olds, the target population of the 2013 law. Future studies should explore the effect of encouraging FOBT or waiving deductible.

Clinical significance of microRNA-1180-3p for colorectal cancer and effect of its alteration on cell function

An early diagnosis and effective prognostic factors would greatly reduce the mortality rate of colorectal cancer (CRC). This research is intended to complete the evaluation of the prognostic value and potential role of miR-1180-3p in CRC. The miR-1180-3p levels were reduced in CRC patients’ tissues, blood, and human CRC cell lines. The ability of miR-1180-3p was explored in discrimination of CRC patients and healths and the value in overall survival estimate. The effect of miR-1180-3p dysregulation on the CRC cellular function was investigated. miR-1180-3p is downregulated in CRC tissues, blood and cells than normal ones. This lower expression was correlated with vascular invasion, lymph node metastasis, and TNM stage. With the use of ROC curve, miR-1180-3p showed discriminating ability in CRC patients and healthy subjects. With the result of Kaplan–Meier analysis and multi-multivariate Cox analysis, miR-1180-3p was an independent predictor for CRC patients’ overall survival. Utilizing CCK-8, Transwell and matrigel assays, overexpression of miR-1180-3p reduced cancer cell proliferation and mobility, but induced apoptosis, by targeting COL12A1. miR-1180-3p might function as a suppressor in CRC progression and allowed the discovery of a new biomarker for diagnosis, prognosis and therapy target for CRC.

Updates, Controversies, and Emerging Approaches in Colorectal Screening

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite the threatening statistics, the US burden for CRC has been decreasing, which is likely multifactorial and has partial contribution from widespread timely screening, more advanced CRC treatment, and daily aspirin use in some patients. While overall death rate from CRC decreased by approximately a half between 1975 and 2012, epidemiologic studies demonstrate that CRC incidence is increasing in the younger population. This pattern has prompted the American Cancer Society (ACS) to revise their guidelines. In this review, we plan to discuss the most recent changes in guidelines, data to support them, controversies concerning CRC screening methods, age to start and to stop screening, and post-colonoscopy/polypectomy surveillance guidelines.

The implementation of colorectal cancer screening interventions in low-and middle-income countries: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experienced increasing rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in the last decade and lower 5-year survival rates compared to high-income countries (HICs) where the implementation of screening and treatment services have advanced. This review scoped and mapped the literature regarding the content, implementation and uptake of CRC screening interventions as well as opportunities and challenges for the implementation of CRC screening interventions in LMICs.

METHODS

We systematically followed a five-step scoping review framework to identify and review relevant literature about CRC screening in LMICs, written in the English language before February 2020. We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Google Scholar for studies targeting the general, asymptomatic, at-risk adult population. The TIDieR tool and an implementation checklist were used to extract data from empirical studies; and we extracted data-informed insights from policy reviews and commentaries.

RESULTS

CRC screening interventions (n = 24 studies) were implemented in nine middle-income countries. Population-based screening programmes (n = 11) as well as small-scale screening interventions (n = 13) utilised various recruitment strategies. Interventions that recruited participants face-to-face (alone or in combination with other recruitment strategies) (10/15), opportunistic clinic-based screening interventions (5/6) and educational interventions combined with screening (3/4), seemed to be the strategies that consistently achieved an uptake of > 65% in LMICs. FOBT/FIT and colonoscopy uptake ranged between 14 and 100%. The most commonly reported implementation indicator was 'uptake/reach'. There was an absence of detail regarding implementation indicators and there is a need to improve reporting practice in order to disseminate learning about how to implement programmes.

CONCLUSION

Opportunities and challenges for the implementation of CRC screening programmes were related to the reporting of CRC cases and screening, cost-effective screening methods, knowledge about CRC and screening, staff resources and training, infrastructure of the health care system, financial resources, public health campaigns, policy commitment from governments, patient navigation, planning of screening programmes and quality assurance.

The classification capability of the Asia Pacific Colorectal Screening score in Korea: an analysis of the Cancer Screenee Cohort

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to validate a simple risk assessment tool for estimating the advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN) risk at colonoscopy screenings and potential factors relevant for implementing this tool in the Korean population.

METHODS

Our study analyzed data from the Cancer Screenee Cohort Study conducted by the National Cancer Center in Korea. The risk level was assessed using the Asia Pacific Colorectal Screening (APCS) score developed by the Asia-Pacific Working Group on Colorectal Cancer. Logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between colorectal-related outcomes and the risk level by APCS score. The discriminatory performance of the APCS score for various colorectal-related outcomes was assessed using C-statistics.

RESULTS

In 12,520 individuals, 317 ACN cases and 4,528 adenoma cases were found. The APCS tool successfully classified the study population into different risk groups, and significant differences in the ACN rate and other outcomes were observed. The APCS score demonstrated acceptable discrimination capability with area under the curve values ranging from 0.62 to 0.65 for various outcomes. The results of the multivariate logistic regression model revealed that the high-risk group had a 3.1-fold higher risk of ACN (95% confidence interval, 2.08 to 4.67) than the average-risk group. Body mass index (BMI) was identified as a significant predictor of ACN in both multivariate and subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlighted significant differences in colorectal-related screening outcomes by colorectal risk level measured using the APCS score, and BMI could be used to improve the discriminatory capability of the APCS score.

Machine Learning Models Cannot Replace Screening Colonoscopy for the Prediction of Advanced Colorectal Adenoma

Screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to rely on colonoscopy and/or fecal occult blood testing since other (non-invasive) risk-stratification systems have not yet been implemented into European guidelines. In this study, we evaluate the potential of machine learning (ML) methods to predict advanced adenomas (AAs) in 5862 individuals participating in a screening program for colorectal cancer. Adenomas were diagnosed histologically with an AA being ≥ 1 cm in size or with high-grade dysplasia/villous features being present. Logistic regression (LR) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithms were evaluated for AA prediction. The mean age was 58.7 ± 9.7 years with 2811 males (48.0%), 1404 (24.0%) of whom suffered from obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²), 871 (14.9%) from diabetes, and 2095 (39.1%) from metabolic syndrome. An adenoma was detected in 1884 (32.1%), as well as AAs in 437 (7.5%). Modelling 36 laboratory parameters, eight clinical parameters, and data on eight food types/dietary patterns, moderate accuracy in predicting AAs with XGBoost and LR (AUC-ROC of 0.65–0.68) could be achieved. Limiting variables to established risk factors for AAs did not significantly improve performance. Moreover, subgroup analyses in subjects without genetic predispositions, in individuals aged 45–80 years, or in gender-specific analyses showed similar results. In conclusion, ML based on point-prevalence laboratory and clinical information does not accurately predict AAs.

New scoring systems for predicting advanced proximal neoplasia in asymptomatic adults with or without knowing distal colorectal findings: a prospective, cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Models estimating risk for advanced proximal colorectal neoplasia (APN) may be used to select colorectal cancer (CRC) screening test, either prior to knowing distal colorectal findings or afterward. Current models have only fair discrimination and nearly all require knowing distal findings.

OBJECTIVE

Derive and test risk prediction models for APN with and without distal findings.

SETTING

Selected endoscopy centers within central Indiana, USA.

PARTICIPANTS

Average-risk persons undergoing first-time screening colonoscopy.

INTERVENTIONS

Demographics, personal and family medical history, lifestyle factors and physical measures were linked to the most advanced finding in proximal and distal colorectal segments. For both models, logistic regression identified factors independently associated with APN on a derivation set. Based on equation coefficients, points were assigned to each factor, and risk for APN was examined for each score. Scores with comparable risks were collapsed into risk categories. Both models and their scoring systems were tested on the validation set.

MAIN OUTCOME

APN, defined as any adenoma or sessile serrated lesion ≥1 cm, one with villous histology or high-grade dysplasia, or CRC proximal to the descending colon.

RESULTS

Among 3025 subjects in the derivation set (mean age 57.3 ± 6.5 years; 52% women), APN prevalence was 4.5%; 2859 (94.5%) had complete data on risk factors. Independently associated with APN were age, sex, cigarette smoking, cohabitation status, metabolic syndrome, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use and physical activity. This model (without distal findings) was well-calibrated (P = 0.62) and had good discrimination (c-statistic = 0.73). In low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups that comprised 21, 58 and 21% of the sample, respectively, APN risks were 1.47% (95% CI, 0.67-2.77%), 3.09% (CI, 2.31-4.04%) and 11.6% (CI, 9.10-14.4%), respectively (P < 0.0001), with no proximal CRCs in the low-risk group and 2 in the intermediate-risk group. When tested in the validation set of 1455, the model retained good metrics (calibration P = 0.85; c-statistic = 0.83), with APN risks in low- (22%), intermediate- (56%) and high-risk (22%) subgroups of 0.62% (CI, 0.08-2.23%) 2.20% (CI, 1.31-3.46%) and 13.0% (CI, 9.50-17.2%), respectively (P < 0.0001). There were no proximal CRCs in the low-risk group, and two in the intermediate-risk group. The model with distal findings performed comparably, with validation set metrics of 0.18 for calibration, 0.76 for discrimination and APN risk (% sample) in low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups of 1.1 (69%), 8.3 (22%) and 22.3% (9%).

CONCLUSION

These models stratify large proportions of average-risk persons into clinically meaningful risk groups, and could improve screening efficiency, particularly for noncolonoscopy-based programs.

Updates, Controversies, and Emerging Approaches in Colorectal Screening

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite the threatening statistics, the US burden for CRC has been decreasing, which is likely multifactorial and has partial contribution from widespread timely screening, more advanced CRC treatment, and daily aspirin use in some patients. While overall death rate from CRC decreased by approximately a half between 1975 and 2012, epidemiologic studies demonstrate that CRC incidence is increasing in the younger population. This pattern has prompted the American Cancer Society (ACS) to revise their guidelines. In this review, we plan to discuss the most recent changes in guidelines, data to support them, controversies concerning CRC screening methods, age to start and to stop screening, and post-colonoscopy/polypectomy surveillance guidelines.

Uptake of Genetic Testing Among Patients with Cancer At Risk for Lynch Syndrome in the National Health Interview Survey

Lynch syndrome is the most common inherited cancer syndrome that increases the risk of developing colorectal and endometrial cancer. Universal screening guidelines were first recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2009 and are updated annually by multiple societies. Therefore, one would expect genetic testing rates to increase over time. But testing remains underutilized among those with colorectal or endometrial cancer, even though early detection can improve prognosis and survival rates. In this study, we aimed to understand differences in genetic testing uptake among those with colorectal cancer or endometrial cancer from 2005, 2010, 2015, using data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). We examined genetic testing uptake across cancer-type, age (≤50 or ≥51), sex, race, insurance, and education using a χ² statistical analysis. Despite an upward genetic testing trend in 2010, we found no significant differences in genetic testing uptake over time. In 2010, non-White individuals experienced the highest increase from 2005 in comparison with White individuals. However, genetic testing rates declined for both groups by 2015. Our findings show that genetic testing for colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer did not increase over a 10-year period in spite of guidelines that recommend testing. PREVENTION RELEVANCE: Genetic testing uptake for colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer has not increased over a 10-year period in spite of universal screening guidelines. More genetic testing education is needed at the provider and patient level to improve screening strategies for cancer patients who are most at risk for Lynch syndrome.

Proton pump inhibitor omeprazole suppresses carcinogen induced colonic adenoma progression to adenocarcinoma in F344 rat

Colorectal cancer (CRC) causes over 53,000 deaths annually in the United States. Its rising incidences worldwide and particularly in young adults is a major concern. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of omeprazole (OME) that is clinically approved for treating acid-reflux, to enable its repurposing for CRC prevention. In the azoxymethane (AOM)-induced rat CRC model, dietary OME (250 and 500 ppm) was administered at early adenoma stage (8 weeks after AOM) to assess the progression of early lesions to adenocarcinoma. Administration of OME at 250 ppm or 500 ppm doses led to suppression of total colon adenocarcinoma incidence by 15.7% and 32% (p<0.01), respectively. Importantly, invasive carcinoma incidence was reduced by 59% (p<0.0005) and 90% (p<0.0001) in OME administered rats in a dose-dependent manner. There was also a strong and dose-dependent inhibition in the adenocarcinoma multiplicity in rats exposed to OME. Administration of 250 and 500 ppm OME inhibited total colon adenocarcinoma multiplicity by ~49% and ~65% (p<0.0001), respectively. While non-invasive adenocarcinomas multiplicity was suppressed by ~34% to ~48% (p<0.02), the invasive carcinomas multiplicity was reduced by ~74% to ~94% (p<0.0001) in OME exposed rats in comparison to the untreated rats. Biomarker analysis results showed a decrease in cell proliferation and anti-apoptotic/pro-survival proteins with an increase in apoptosis. Transcriptome analysis of treated tumors revealed a significant increase in adenocarcinoma inhibitory genes (Olmf4; Spink4) expression and down regulation of progression promoting genes (SerpinA1, MMP21, IL6). In summary, OME showed significant protection against the progression of adenoma to adenocarcinoma.

Should colorectal cancer screening start at different ages for men and women? Cost-effectiveness analysis for a resource-constrained service

BACKGROUND

Men have a greater risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) than women, but population screening currently starts at the same age for both sexes.

AIM

This analysis investigates whether, in a resource-constrained setting, it would be more effective and cost-effective for men and women to start screening for CRC at different ages.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An economic modeling analysis was carried out using the Microsimulation Model in Cancer of the Bowel to compare sex-stratification against screening everyone from the same age, taking an English National Health Service perspective. Screening men from age 56 and women from age 60, rather than screening everyone from age 58 using a Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) threshold of 120 μg/g is expected to produce an additional 0.0004 QALYs for a cost of £0.55 per person at model start (Incremental Cost-effectiveness Ratio = £1392), and to reduce CRC cases and mortality by 25 and 19 per 100 000 people respectively, while using a similar amount of screening resources. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicates a 61% probability that sex-stratification is more cost-effective than screening everyone at age 58. Similar benefits of sex-stratification are found at other FIT thresholds, but become negligible if mean screening start age is reduced to 50.

CONCLUSION

Where resources are constrained and it is not feasible to screen everyone from the age of 50, starting screening earlier in men than women is likely to be more cost-effective and gain more health benefits overall than strategies where men and women start screening at the same age.

The effectiveness of using an abdominal binder during colonoscopy: a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Prolongation of cecal intubation time (CIT) directly affects the comfort of the patient and the colonoscopist. In this study, the effectiveness of using an abdominal binder (AB) during colonoscopy on procedure time and colonoscopy outcomes was investigated.

METHODS

We conducted a parallel randomized double-blind sham-device-controlled study of patients who underwent elective outpatient colonoscopy between 1 May 2020, and 31 August 2020. Participants were randomly assigned to AB (n = 173) and sham binder (SB) (n = 173) groups. The primary outcome was CIT. Secondary outcomes were the need for auxiliary maneuvers, the cecum intubation length (CIL) of the colonoscope, visual analog scale (VAS) score, narcotic analgesic dose, and colonoscopy results. Moreover, subgroup analysis was performed in terms of age and obesity indices.

RESULTS

A total of 346 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean CIT was similar between groups (AB group 240 secs, control group 250 secs, p > .05). Manual pressure requirement was less in the AB group (27 vs. 36%, p = .069). VAS score and the need for extra narcotic analgesic drugs were prominently lower in the AB group (p < .001, p = .016, respectively). In the subgroup analyses, in participants at the age of <60 and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) ≥0.5, manual pressure requirements were significantly shorter in the AB group (p = .017, p = .032, respectively).

CONCLUSION

AB use in selected patients may be advantageous during colonoscopy because it reduces the need for analgesics and post-procedure pain, and reduces the need for auxiliary maneuvers in relatively young and obese patients.

Advances in radiological staging of colorectal cancer

The role of imaging in clinically staging colorectal cancer has grown substantially in the 21^st century with more widespread availability of multi-row detector computed tomography (CT), high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), and integrated positron-emission tomography (PET)/CT. In contrast to staging many other cancers, increasing colorectal cancer stage does not highly correlate with survival. As has been the case previously, clinical practice incorporates advances in staging and it is used to guide therapy before adoption into international staging guidelines. Emerging imaging techniques show promise to become part of future staging standards.

Beyond Colonoscopy: Exploring New Cell Surface Biomarkers for Detection of Early, Heterogenous Colorectal Lesions

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women in the United States. Early detection and surgical removal of high-risk lesions in the colon can prevent disease from developing and spreading. Despite implementation of programs aimed at early detection, screening colonoscopies fail to detect a fraction of potentially aggressive colorectal lesions because of their location or nonobvious morphology. Optical colonoscopies, while highly effective, rely on direct visualization to detect changes on the surface mucosa that are consistent with dysplasia. Recent advances in endoscopy techniques and molecular imaging permit microscale visualization of the colonic mucosa. These technologies can be combined with various molecular probes that recognize and target heterogenous lesion surfaces to achieve early, real-time, and potentially non-invasive, detection of pre-cancerous lesions. The primary goal of this review is to contextualize existing and emergent CRC surface biomarkers and assess each’s potential as a candidate marker for early marker-based detection of CRC lesions. CRC markers that we include were stratified by the level of support gleaned from peer-reviewed publications, abstracts, and databases of both CRC and other cancers. The selected biomarkers, accessible on the cell surface and preferably on the luminal surface of the colon tissue, are organized into three categories: (1) established biomarkers (those with considerable data and high confidence), (2) emerging biomarkers (those with increasing research interest but with less supporting data), and (3) novel candidates (those with very recent data, and/or supportive evidence from other tissue systems). We also present an overview of recent advances in imaging techniques useful for visual detection of surface biomarkers, and discuss the ease with which these methods can be combined with microscopic visualization.

Real-World Use of Colonoscopy in an Older Population: A Nationwide Standard Cohort Study Using a Common Data Model

BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS

Rapid population aging is considered to be a major factor in increased colonoscopy use in Korea. However, real-world use of colonoscopy in older populations is rarely evaluated using Korean databases.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort study of individuals aged over 20 years between 2012 and 2017. We used the Health Insurance Review and Assessment-National Patient Samples database, previously converted to the standardized Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model. The use of diagnostic colonoscopy and colonoscopic polypectomy was evaluated, stratified by age group and sex.

RESULTS

During the study period, we captured data from the database on 240,406 patients who underwent diagnostic colonoscopy and 88,984 who underwent colonoscopic polypectomy. During the study period, use of diagnostic colonoscopy and colonoscopic polypectomy steadily increased, but both procedures were most significantly increased in the 65- to 85-year group compared to other age groups (p < 0.05). Average ages for both procedures significantly increased in the most recent 3 years (p < 0.05). Polypectomy rates for men plateaued in the 50- to 64-year age group, but rates for women steadily increased up to the 65- to 85-year group. Polypectomy rates were higher for men than for women in all index years.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of diagnostic colonoscopy and colonoscopic polypectomy significantly increased in the 65- to 85-year age group. Our findings suggest that more available colonoscopy resources should be allocated to older populations, considering the aging society in Asian countries.

Estimating cost-effectiveness of screening for colorectal cancer in Vietnam

Background:Presently, there are no national screening programs for cancer in Vietnam. This study aimed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of an annual colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program from the healthcare service provider's perspective for the Vietnamese population.Methods:The economic model consisted of adecision tree and aMarkov model. Adecision tree was constructed for comparing two strategies, including ascreening group with aguaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) and ano-screening group in general populations, aged 50 years and above. The Markov model projected outcomes over a25-year horizon. The cost-effectiveness outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) represented by costs per quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).Results:When compared with no screening, ICER was $1,388per QALY with an increased cost of $ 43.98 and again of 0.032 QALY (Willingness to pay $2,590). The uptake rate of gFOBT, cost of colonoscopy, and the total cost of screening contributed to the largest impact on the ICER. PSA showed that results were robust to variation in parameter estimates, with annual screening remaining cost-effective compared with no screening.Conclusion:Our screening strategy could be considered cost-effective compared to ano screening strategy. Our findings could be potentially used to develop aCRC national screening program.

Colorectal Cancer Trends of 2018 in Romania-an Important Geographical Variation Between Northern and Southern Lands and High Mortality Versus European Averages

PURPOSE

In Romania, one of the highest rates for colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality in Europe was estimated based on data available in 2008. Ever since, consistent data are missing. In this article, we tried to estimate the general burden of CRC in our country.

METHODS

We collected data from all hospitalized recorded cases according to the ICD-10 revision (codes C18-C20), as both primary and secondary diagnoses, as reported by all the hospitals to the DRG National System, between 2016 and 2018.

RESULTS

There were 50,890 persons hospitalized with CRC. The prevalence of hospitalized colorectal cancer was 108.24/100,000 inhabitants in 2016, 113.09/100,000 inhabitants in 2017, and 116.83/100,000 inhabitants in 2018. Distal localization prevailed. We registered 34.13/100,000 deaths by CRC within the mentioned period of time, almost twofold higher than average European range. There are significant geographical differences regarding CRC prevalence and mortality, with higher rates in the Northern and Central Regions, and a very low prevalence and mortality in Bucharest and Southern provinces.

CONCLUSION

We note a high colorectal mortality rate in Romania, especially in the Northern and Central Regions, nearly double versus European ranges.

Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality after negative fecal immunochemical tests by age 70: A prospective observational study

Limited endoscopy capacity usually represents the main barrier to the extension of screening to subjects older than 70, given the high positivity rate in this age group. We assessed CRC incidence and mortality by number of previous negative fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) among subjects turning 70. We selected persons aged 70 years who had received their last screening invitation when they were 68 or 69 years old within the population-based screening program in the Veneto region of Italy. Subjects with a positive FIT were excluded. We calculated 10-year cumulative CRC incidence and mortality in cohorts of subjects having performed zero, one, two or three negative FITs over the last three screening rounds before turning 70. Out of 117 858 subjects included in the study (46.4% men), 33.7% had never participated in screening (zero negative FITs), 23.3% had had one-negative FIT, 20.1% two-negative FITs and 22.9% three negative FITs. The 10-year cumulative CRC incidence was 29.7 per 1000 subjects with zero FITs, and respectively, 14.5, 11.7 and 9.6 per 1000 subjects with one, two and three negative FITs. The corresponding figures for 10-year cumulative mortality were 9.3, 3.5, 2.2 and 2.1 per 1000 in the four study cohorts. Figures were roughly double for men than for women for all the study cohorts. In order to use more efficiently limited endoscopy resources, and to minimize the potential harms related to false positive results in the elderly, screening among people aged 70 to 74 might be restricted to those with zero previous negative FITs.

Influence of chronic comorbidities on periodic colorectal cancer screening participation: A population-based cohort study

Guidelines recommend regular screening for colorectal cancer (CRC). We examined the effects of chronic comorbidities on periodic CRC testing. Using linked healthcare databases from Ontario, Canada, we assembled a population-based cohort of 50-74-year olds overdue for guideline-recommended CRC screening between April 1, 2004 and March 31, 2016. We implemented multivariable recurrent events models to determine the association between comorbidities and the rate of becoming up-to-date with periodic CRC tests. The cohort included 4,642,422 individuals. CRC testing rates were significantly lower in persons with renal disease on dialysis (hazard ratio, HR 0.66, 95% confidence interval, CI 0.63 to 0.68), heart failure (HR 0.75, CI 0.75 to 0.76), respiratory disease (HR 0.84, CI 0.83 to 0.84), cardiovascular disease (HR 0.85, CI 0.84 to 0.85), diabetes (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.87) and mental illness (HR 0.88, CI 0.87 to 0.88). There was an inverse association between the number of medical conditions and the rate of CRC testing (5 vs. none: HR 0.30, CI 0.25 to 0.36; 4 vs. none: HR 0.48, CI 0.47 to 0.50; 3 vs. none: HR 0.59, CI 0.58 to 0.60; 2 vs. none: HR 0.72, CI 0.71 to 0.72; 1 vs. none: HR 0.85, CI 0.84 to 0.85). Having both medical and mental comorbidities was associated with lower testing rates than either type of comorbidity alone (HR 0.72, CI 0.71 to 0.72). In summary, chronic comorbidities present a barrier to periodic guideline-recommended CRC testing. Exploration of cancer prevention gaps in these populations is warranted.

Factors Affecting Cecal Intubation Time in Colonoscopy: Impact of Obesity

Objective

This study aims to determine the factors that prolong cecal intubation time (CIT) and determine the effect of obesity on CIT measured using multiple indexes.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective colonoscopy between July 10, 2020, and January 20, 2021, were evaluated in this prospective observational study. Age, gender, constipation, bowel preparation, presence of diverticulosis, previous surgery history, auxiliary maneuver and additional analgesic requirement, cecum intubation length (CL) and obesity indices [body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR)] were analyzed. Factors affecting CIT were assessed by both univariate and multivariate logistic regression (LR) analyses.

Results

A total of 512 patients were analyzed. Mean CIT was 5.6 ± 1.6 min, and median CIT was 5.17 min. The CIT median was ≤5.17 min in 264 (51.5%) of the patients, and the CIT median was >5.17 min in 248 (48.5%). In the univariate LR results, young age, constipation, poor bowel preparation, increased CL, additional analgesic requirement, low WHtR, and low BMI (<25 kg/m2) were the factors that prolonged CIT (p <0.05). In the multivariate LR analysis results, WHtR >0.5 and BMI >30 kg/m2 were found to be independent factors that decrease CIT [OR: 0.01 (0.01 0.03) p <0.001; OR: 0.28 (0.13 0.57) p <0.001].

Conclusion

Younger age, low WHtR, low BMI, increased CL, constipation, inadequate bowel preparation, and the use of extra analgesics were found to be associated with longer CIT. When all factors were evaluated together, obesity measured by only WHtR (>0.5) and BMI (>30 kg/m2) were the best predictors of decreased CIT.

Does National Colorectal Cancer Screening Program Represent Good Value for Money? Results from a Return-on-Investment Model in Vietnam

To provide important evidence for the resource allocation process in Vietnam, this research was conducted to explore the return on investment (ROI) of the national colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program. A decision tree model was designed to estimate the cost and cost savings of a national screening program (ie, providing annual fecal occult blood test [FOBT], following with colonoscopy in case of FOBT positive for the medium-risk group over 50 years old) compared to no screening scenario. This was the first attempt in estimating the ROI of a public health program in Vietnam. Although there was a wide variation due to the uncertainty of the input parameters, especially regarding the coverage of the colorectal cancer screening program in the community, the calculated ROI rates in all different cases were positive, demonstrating that the national colorectal cancer screening program brought benefits to the investment. With a modest coverage of 30% of the population over the age of 50, the corresponding ROI value was 325.4% (95%UI: 321.0; 329.9). The results of this study could be used to advocate for the implementation of a national colorectal cancer screening program in terms of the monetary benefits of investing in the program.

Colorectal cancer screening behaviors

Introduction

Colorectal cancer screening program compliance in Turkey is around 20-30%. Factors that may affect preventive health behavior, mainly individuals' values, beliefs and attitudes, should be explored. A "Health Belief Model" (HBM) scale was developed in 1950 to explain the insufficient participation of some individuals in screening programs. The scale was adopted for colon cancer in 2002. The validity and reliability study of this scale for the Turkish language was conducted in 2007. In this study we aim to evaluate the health beliefs of relatively young individuals before the age of screening in relation to attitudes to colorectal cancer screening via the Turkish version of the scale.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire composed of 14 sociodemographic questions and 33 HBM scale questions were applied to the patients of a Family Medicine outpatient clinic where the majority of the patients are relatively young people. The data was analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 21.0.

Results

A total of 310 subjects at the age of 18 and over were informed about the study. The study was completed with 215 subjects with a participation rate of 69.3%. The average age of the participants was 35.4 ± 12.8 years; 62.8% of them were women; 26.0% were students. 94.4% of the participants did not have a history of colon cancer among their first degree relatives. 58.1% agreed that "A colonoscopy should be done every ten years starting at age 50 to screen for colon cancer." Age, marital status, education and occupation status were found to have an effect on barrier scores. Young participants, singles, and those with a primary and/or secondary school education had statistically significant higher barrier scores. The motivation scores of high school graduates were higher than university graduates. The seriousness scores of men were found to be higher than women.

Conclusion

Our study points out that attitudes about preventive health measures are mainly associated with age, gender, education level and marital status. These personal characteristics should be taken into consideration while offering screening programs and preventive health measures to individuals in order to protect against colorectal cancer. It is better to give specific messages according to personal characteristics and specific barriers instead of general messages about conducting screening tests beginning from a young age.

KDOQI US Commentary on the 2020 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Candidates for Kidney Transplantation

Evaluation of patients for kidney transplant candidacy is a comprehensive process that involves a detailed assessment of medical and surgical issues, psychosocial factors, and patients' physical and cognitive abilities with an aim of balancing the benefits of transplantation and potential risks of surgery and long-term immunosuppression. There is considerable variability among transplant centers in their approach to evaluation and decision-making regarding transplant candidacy. The 2020 KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Guidelines Outcome) clinical practice guideline on the evaluation and management of candidates for kidney transplantation provides practice recommendations that can serve as a useful reference guide to transplant professionals. The guideline, covering a broad range of topics, was developed by an international group of experts from transplant and nephrology through a review of literature published until May 2019. A work group of US transplant nephrologists convened by NKF-KDOQI (National Kidney Foundation-Kidney Disease Quality Initiative) chose key topics for this commentary with a goal of presenting a broad discussion to the US transplant community. Each section of this article has a summary of the key KDIGO guideline recommendations, followed by a brief commentary on the recommendations, their clinical utility, and potential implementation challenges. The KDOQI work group agrees broadly with the KDIGO recommendations but also recognizes and highlights the decision-making challenges that arise from lack of high-quality evidence and the need to balance equity with utility of organ transplantation.

More Favorable Short and Long-Term Outcomes for Screen-Detected Colorectal Cancer Patients

Background

Screening significantly reduces mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC). Screen detected (SD) tumors associate with better prognosis, even at later stage, compared to non-screen detected (NSD) tumors. We aimed to evaluate the association between diagnostic modality (SD vs. NSD) and short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for CRC.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved patients aged 50–69 years, residing in Veneto, Italy, who underwent curative-intent surgery for CRC between 2006 and 2018. The clinical multi-institutional dataset was linked with the screening dataset in order to define diagnostic modality (SD vs. NSD). Short- and long-term outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

Of 1,360 patients included, 464 were SD (34.1%) and 896 NSD (65.9%). Patients with a SD CRC were more likely to have less comorbidities (p = 0.013), lower ASA score (p = 0.001), tumors located in the proximal colon (p = 0.0018) and earlier stage at diagnosis (p < 0.0001). NSD patients were found to have more aggressive disease at diagnosis, higher complication rate and higher readmission rate due to surgical complications (all p < 0.05). NSD patients had a significantly lower Disease Free Survival and Overall Survival (all p < 0.0001), even after adjusting by demographic, clinic-pathological, tumor, and treatment characteristics.

Conclusions

SD tumors were associated with better long-term outcomes, even after multiple adjustments. Our results confirm the advantages for the target population to participate in the screening programs and comply with their therapeutic pathways.

Development of a decision aid to support colorectal cancer screening: perspectives of Asians in an endemic urban community-a qualitative research study

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy worldwide. Despite being the most common cancer in Singapore, CRC screening rate remains low due to knowledge deficits, social reasons such as inconvenience and a lack of reminder or recommendation. A decision aid (DA) may facilitate an individual's decision-making to undertake CRC screening by addressing misconceptions and barriers. We postulate that a more person-centred and culturally adapted DA will better serve the local population. The views of the target users are thus needed to develop such a DA. A CRC screening DA prototype has been adapted from an American DA to cater to the Asian users. This study aimed to explore user perspectives on an adapted CRC screening DA-prototype in terms of the design, content and perceived utility.

METHODS

The study used in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to gather qualitative data from English-literate multi-ethnic Asian adults aged 50 years old and above. They had yet to screen for CRC before they were recruited from a public primary care clinic in Singapore. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed to identify emergent themes via thematic analysis.

RESULTS

This study included 27 participants involved in 5 IDI and 5 FGDs. Participants found the DA easily comprehensible and of appropriate length. They appreciated information about the options and proposed having multi-lingual DAs. The design, in terms of the layout, size and font, was well-accepted but there were suggestions to digitalize the DA. Participants felt that the visuals were useful but there were concerns about modesty due to the realism of the illustration. They would use the DA for information-sharing with their family and for discussion with their doctor for decision making. They preferred the doctor's recommendation for CRC screening and initiating the use of the DA.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants generally had favourable perceptions of the DA-prototype. A revised DA will be developed based on their feedback. Further input from doctors on the revised DA will be obtained before assessing its effectiveness to increase CRC screening rate in a randomized controlled trial.

Colorectal Cancer Screening With Repeated Fecal Immunochemical Test Versus Sigmoidoscopy: Baseline Results From a Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The comparative effectiveness of sigmoidoscopy and fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is unknown.

METHODS

Individuals aged 50-74 years living in Southeast Norway were randomly invited between 2012 and 2019 to either once-only flexible sigmoidoscopy or FIT screening every second year. Colonoscopy was recommended after sigmoidoscopy if any polyp of ≥10 mm, ≥3 adenomas, any advanced adenomas, or CRC was found or, subsequent to, FIT >15 μg hemoglobin/g feces. Data for this report were obtained after complete recruitment in both groups and included 2 full FIT rounds and part of the third round. Outcome measures were participation, neoplasia detection, and adverse events. Age-standardized detection rates and age-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were calculated.

RESULTS

We included 139,291 individuals: 69,195 randomized to sigmoidoscopy and 70,096 to FIT. The participation rate was 52% for sigmoidoscopy, 58% in the first FIT round, and 68% for 3 cumulative FIT rounds. Compared to sigmoidoscopy, the detection rate for CRC was similar in the first FIT round (0.25% vs 0.27%; OR, 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75-1.13) but higher after 3 FIT rounds (0.49% vs 0.27%; OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.54-2.27). Advanced adenoma detection rate was lower in the first FIT round compared to sigmoidoscopy at 1.4% vs 2.4% (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.53-0.62) but higher after 3 cumulative FIT rounds at 2.7% vs 2.4% (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.05-1.23). There were 33 (0.05%) serious adverse events in the sigmoidoscopy group compared to 47 (0.07%) in the FIT group (P = .13).

CONCLUSIONS

Participation was higher and more CRC and advanced adenomas were detected with repeated FIT compared to sigmoidoscopy. The risk of perforation and bleeding was comparable. Clinicaltrials.gov, Number: NCT01538550.

Racial/ethnic disparities in early-onset colorectal cancer: implications for a racial/ethnic-specific screening strategy

INTRODUCTION

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) is a public health concern. Starting screening at 45 years has been considered, but there is discrepancy in the recommendations. Racial disparities in EO-CRC incidence and survival are reported; however, racial/ethnic differences in EO-CRC features that could inform a racial/ethnic-tailored CRC screening strategy have not been reported. We compared features and survival among Non-Hispanic White (NHW), Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and Hispanics with EO-CRC.

METHODS

CRC patients from SEER 1973-2010 database were identified, and EO-CRC was defined as CRC at <50 years. Clinical/pathological features and survival were compared between NHW, NHB, and Hispanics. Cancer-specific survival (CSS) predictors were assessed in a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

Of 166,416 patients with CRC, 16,545 (9.9%) had EO-CRC. The EO-CRC frequencies in NHB and Hispanics were higher than NHW (12.7% vs. 16.5% vs. 8.7%, p < 0.001). EO-CRC in NHB presents more frequently in females, with well/moderately differentiated, stage IV, and is less likely to present in locations targetable by sigmoidoscopy than NHW (54.6% vs. 67.7% OR:1.7, 95% p < 0.001). 5-year CSS was lower in NHB (59.4% vs. 72.8%, HR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.54-1.82) and Hispanics (66.4% vs. 72.8%, HR: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.16-1.39) than NHW. A regression model among patients with EO-CRC showed that being NHB or Hispanic were independent predictors for cancer-specific mortality, after adjusting for gender, grade, stage, and surgery.

CONCLUSION

EO-CRC is more likely in NHB and Hispanics. Racial disparities in clinical/pathological features and CSS between NHB and NHW/Hispanics were evidenced. A racial/ethnic specific screening strategy could be considered as an alternative for patients younger than 50 years.

Colorectal cancer of the young displays distinct features of aggressive tumor biology: A single-center cohort study

BACKGROUND

In recent years, a decrease in incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been observed in developed nations, presumably through public disease awareness and increased screening efforts. However, a rising incidence of CRC in young patients below the age of 50 years has been reported in several studies.

AIM

To study tumor biology in CRC patients below 50 years of age.

METHODS

All patients with CRC were prospectively enrolled in our single-center oncologic database from January 2013 to December 2018 and were grouped and analyzed according to age (≥ 50 and < 50 years). Clinical as well as histopathological features were analyzed and compared. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee. Fisher’s exact test or t-test was used to test for differences between the groups, as appropriate. All statistical analysis was performed with IBM SPSS software Version 25 (SPSS Inc, Armonk, NY, United States) and with R-Studio using R Version 3.4.1 (RStudio, Boston, MA, United States).

RESULTS

Seventeen percent of the 411 patients were younger than 50 years. Young patients were more often diagnosed with locally advanced T4-tumors and lymph node metastases (36.6% and 62% vs 17.7% and 42%; P < 0.01). In addition, a higher frequency of poorly differentiated (G3) tumors (40% vs 22.4% P < 0.05) was observed. More than every second patient below 40 years of age (51.8%) had distant metastases at diagnosis with a significant higher rate ring of signet cell differentiation compared to patients ≥ 50 years (14.8%, P < 0.05). Mutational status (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, MSI) as well as selected behavioral risk factors showed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Distinct histopathologic features of increased biologic aggressiveness are found in patients with CRC of young-onset. Those patients present more frequently with more advanced tumor stages compared to older patients. Features of aggressive tumor biology underscore the need for earlier uptake of routine screening measures.

European cancer mortality predictions for the year 2021 with focus on pancreatic and female lung cancer

BACKGROUND

We predicted cancer mortality statistics for 2021 for the European Union (EU) and its five most populous countries plus the UK. We also focused on pancreatic cancer and female lung cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We obtained cancer death certifications and population data from the World Health Organization and Eurostat databases for 1970-2015. We predicted numbers of deaths and age-standardised (world population) rates for 2021 for total cancers and 10 major cancer sites, using a joinpoint regression model. We calculated the number of avoided deaths over the period 1989-2021.

RESULTS

We predicted 1 267 000 cancer deaths for 2021 in the EU, corresponding to age-standardised rates of 130.4/100 000 men (-6.6% since 2015) and 81.0/100 000 for women (-4.5%). We estimated further falls in male lung cancer rates, but still trending upward in women by +6.5%, reaching 14.5/100 000 in 2021. The breast cancer predicted rate in the EU was 13.3/100 000 (-7.8%). The rates for stomach and leukaemias in both sexes and for bladder in males are predicted to fall by >10%; trends for other cancer sites were also favourable, except for the pancreas, which showed stable patterns in both sexes, with predicted rates of 8.1/100 000 in men and 5.6/100 000 in women. Rates for pancreatic cancer in EU men aged 25-49 and 50-64 years declined, respectively, by 10% and 1.8%, while for those aged 65+ years increased by 1.3%. Rates fell for young women only (-3.4%). Over 1989-2021, about 5 million cancer deaths were avoided in the EU27 compared with peak rates in 1988.

CONCLUSION

Overall cancer mortality continues to fall in both sexes. However, specific focus is needed on pancreatic cancer, which shows a sizeable decline for young men only. Tobacco control remains a priority for the prevention of pancreatic and other tobacco-related cancers, which account for one-third of the total EU cancer deaths, especially in women, who showed less favourable trends.

Histopathological and epidemiological findings of colonoscopy screening in a population with an average risk of colorectal cancer in Kuwait

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in women and the third most common in men worldwide, with a significantly rising incidence in the Middle East region over the last few decades. This study investigates the histopathological and epidemiological characteristics of colonoscopic findings in a population with an average risk of CRC in Kuwait.

METHODS

In this study, 1,005 asymptomatic average-risk Kuwaiti adults aged over 40 years had their first colonoscopy screening during the 2015-2018 period. Data on lifestyle behaviors (cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity), body mass index (BMI), and comorbidities were routinely collected from these individuals. All colorectal polyps or masses were assessed for their site, size, and number and then resected and sent for histopathological examination.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 54 years, and 52.2% were women. In screened individuals, the polyp detection rate, adenoma detection rate, and carcinoma detection rate were 43.8%, 27.7%, and 1.2%, respectively. Tubular, tubulovillous, and villous types of adenoma constituted 17.3%, 2.8%, and 1.3% of all screened participants. Neoplastic lesions, particularly in the proximal colon, were more common among men aged 40-49 years. Age of 70 years and older (OR: 9.6; 95% CI: 4.7-19.9; P < 0.001), male gender (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1-2.3; P = 0.011), increased BMI (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02-1.08; P = 0.001), and smoking (OR: 3.5; 95% CI: 2.3-5.4; P < 0.001) were the most significant independent risk factors for colorectal neoplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

The high adenoma detection rate (ADR) in Kuwaiti population calls for the establishment of a national programe for CRC screening. The higher ADR in those younger than 50 years calls for assessment of the threshold age at which to start screening.

The Role, Function, and Mechanism of Long Intergenic Noncoding RNA1184 (linc01184) in Colorectal Cancer

Background

Long intergenic noncoding RNA1184 (linc01184) has been recently discovered; however, its role in human diseases is limited to date. The present study is aimed at investigating the expression pattern and mechanism of linc01184 in colorectal cancer (CRC) tumorigenesis.

Methods

The expression of linc01184 in CRC tissues and cell lines was compared with that in normal controls. The functions of linc01184 in CRC cells were identified by overexpression and small interfering RNA (siRNA) approaches in vitro. Meanwhile, the target gene prediction software, luciferase reporter, RNA pull-down, and western blotting assays were used to analyze the oncogenic mechanism.

Results

We found that linc01184 was obviously upregulated in CRC tissues and cells when compared to normal controls, and its upregulation had a positive association with the CRC progression. linc01184 knockdown significantly suppressed CRC cell proliferation and invasion and promoted apoptosis. Besides, linc01184 acted as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by directly binding to microRNA-331 (miR-331), and its overexpression resulted in notable increases of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), phosphorylated Ser/Thr kinases (p-Akt), and extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 (p-ERK1/2) at posttranscriptional levels in CRC cells, which were antagonized by miR-331.

Conclusions

The findings reveal for the first time that linc01184 is an enhancer for the proliferation and invasion of CRC by functioning as a ceRNA through the linc01184-miR-331-HER2-p-Akt/ERK1/2 pathway regulatory network.

Colonoscopy-related injury among colonoscopists: an international survey

Background and study aims  Colonoscopy is physically demanding for endoscopists and patients. Repetitive movements during colonoscopy can lead to overuse injuries. We aimed to explore the prevalence and range of colonoscopy-related musculoskeletal injuries (CRIs) in endoscopists. Methods  A cross-sectional electronic survey of 1825 endoscopists was performed. The sample was composed of members of the British Society of Gastroenterology, European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, and National Nurse Endoscopy Group (UK). The survey comprised 20 questions. These included: endoscopists' workload, level of experience, and their perceived CRIs. All endoscopists who perform colonoscopy independently were included in the analysis. Results  A total of 368 questionnaires were completed of 1825 surveyed (20.16 %). Of those, 319 participants (17.48 %) were fully independent in colonoscopy. Of 319 endoscopists, 254 (79.6 %) have experienced musculoskeletal injuries. These were reported as either possibly (n = 143, 56.3 %) or definitely (n = 90, 35.4 %) related to colonoscopy. Commonly injured areas were the lower back (n = 85, 36.5 %), neck (n = 82, 35.2 %) and left thumb (n = 79, 33.9 %). Of the injured endoscopists, 98 (30.7 %) made some modification to their practice, such as stretching exercises and ergonomic changes. Of the endoscopists, 134 (42.0 %) thought that repetitive limb strain was a likely causative mechanism. Around 40 % believed that torquing the scope and challenging body position were precipitating CRIs. Several treatment modalities were used to treat CRIs. These included; physiotherapy (n = 109), medications (n = 70), rest (n = 43), splinting (n = 31), steroid injections (n = 26) and surgery (n = 11). Conclusions  A significant proportion of colonoscopists experience CRIs. The majority of the suggested modifications to practice can be adopted by any endoscopist. These results highlight the need to recognise CRI as an important occupational health hazard and to adopt preventative strategies routinely in the future.

Establishing thresholds for important benefits considering the harms of screening interventions

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

Standards for clinical practice guidelines require explicit statements regarding how values and preferences influence recommendations. However, no cancer screening guideline has addressed the key question of what magnitude of benefit people require to undergo screening, given its harms and burdens. This article describes the development of a new method for guideline developers to address this key question in the absence of high-quality evidence from published literature.

SUMMARY OF METHOD

The new method was developed and applied in the context of a recent BMJ Rapid Recommendation clinical practice guideline for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. First, we presented the guideline panel with harms and burdens (derived from a systematic review) associated with the CRC screening tests under consideration. Second, each panel member completed surveys documenting their views of expected benefits on CRC incidence and mortality that people would require to accept the harms and burdens of screening. Third, the panel discussed results of the surveys and agreed on thresholds for benefits at which the majority of people would choose screening. During these three steps, the panel had no access to the actual benefits of the screening tests. In step four, the panel was presented with screening test benefits derived from a systematic review of clinical trials and microsimulation modelling. The thresholds derived through steps one to three were applied to these benefits, and directly informed the panel's recommendations.

CONCLUSION

We present the development and application of a new, four-step method enabling incorporation of explicit and transparent judgements of values and preferences in a screening guideline. Guideline panels should establish their view regarding the magnitude of required benefit, given burdens and harms, before they review screening benefits and make their recommendations accordingly. Making informed screening decisions requires transparency in values and preferences judgements that our new method greatly facilitates.

Faecal immunochemical test to triage patients with abdominal symptoms for suspected colorectal cancer in primary care: review of international use and guidelines

BACKGROUND

Recently, faecal immunochemical tests (FITs) have been introduced for investigation of primary care patients with low-risk symptoms of colorectal cancer (CRC), but recommendations vary across the world. This systematic review of clinical practice guidelines aimed to determine how FITs are used in symptomatic primary care patients and the underpinning evidence for these guidelines.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase and TRIP databases were systematically searched, from 1 November 2008 to 1 November 2018 for guidelines on the assessment of patients with symptoms suggestive of CRC. Known guideline databases, websites and references of related literature were searched. The following questions were addressed: (i) which countries use FIT for symptomatic primary care patients; (ii) in which populations is FIT used; (iii) what is the cut-off level used for haemoglobin in the faeces (FIT) and (iv) on what evidence are FIT recommendations based.

RESULTS

The search yielded 2433 publications; 25 covered initial diagnostic assessment of patients with symptoms of CRC in 15 countries (Asia, n = 1; Europe, n = 13; Oceania, n = 4; North America, n = 5; and South America, n = 2). In three countries (Australia, Spain and the UK), FIT was recommended for patients with abdominal symptoms, unexplained weight loss, change in bowel habit or anaemia despite a low level of evidence in the symptomatic primary care patient population.

CONCLUSIONS

Few countries recommend FITs in symptomatic patients in primary care either because of limited evidence or because symptomatic patients are directly referred to secondary care without triage. These results demonstrate a clear need for research on FIT in the symptomatic primary care population.

Association Between Time to Colonoscopy After Positive Fecal Testing and Colorectal Cancer Outcomes: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Colonoscopy is required following a positive fecal screening test for colorectal cancer (CRC). It remains unclear to what extent time to colonoscopy is associated with CRC-related outcomes. We performed a systematic review to elucidate this relationship.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed through April 2020 for studies reporting associations between time from positive fecal testing to colonoscopy and outcomes including CRC incidence (primary outcome), CRC stage at diagnosis, and/or CRC-specific mortality. Our primary objective was to quantify these relationships following positive fecal immunochemical testing (FIT). Two authors independently performed screening, abstraction, and risk of bias assessments.

RESULTS

From 1,612 initial studies, 8 were included in the systematic review, with 5 reporting outcomes for FIT. Although meta-analysis was not possible, consistent trends between longer time delays and worse outcomes were apparent in all studies. Colonoscopy performed beyond 9 months from positive FIT compared to within 1 month was significantly associated with a higher incidence of CRC, with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) of 1.75 and 1.48 in the two largest studies. These studies also reported significant associations between colonoscopy performed beyond 9 months and higher incidence of advanced stage CRC (stage III or IV) at diagnosis, with AORs of 2.79 and 1.55, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonoscopy for positive FIT should not be delayed beyond 9 months. Given the additional time required for urgent referrals and surgical planning for CRC, colonoscopy should ideally be performed well in advance of 9 months following a positive FIT.

Tumour growth rate of carcinoma of the colon and rectum: retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The growth pattern of colorectal cancer is seldom investigated. This cohort study aimed to explore tumour growth rate in colorectal cancers managed non-surgically or deemed not resectable, and to determine its implication for prognosis.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with colonic or rectal adenocarcinoma were identified through the colorectal multidisciplinary team database at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust over a 2-year interval. Patients who received no treatment (surgery, stenting, colonic defunctioning procedures, chemotherapy, radiotherapy) and who underwent CT twice more than 5 weeks apart were included. Multidetector CT/three-dimensional image analysis was performed independently by three experienced radiologists.

RESULTS

Of 804 patients reviewed, 43 colorectal cancers were included in the final analysis. Median age at first CT was 80 (73-85) years and the median interval between scans was 150 (i.q.r. 72-471) days. An increase in T category was demonstrated in 31 of 43 tumours, with a median doubling time of 211 (112-404) days. The median percentage increase in tumour volume was 34·1 (13·3-53·9) per cent per 62 days. The all-cause 3-year mortality rate was 81 per cent (35 of 43) with a median survival time of 1·1 (0·4-2·2) years after the initial diagnostic scan. In those obstructed, the relative risk of death from subsequent perforation was 1·26 (95 per cent c.i. 1·07 to 1·49; P = 0·005).

CONCLUSION

This study documented a median doubling time of 211 days, with a concerning suggestion of tumour progression, which has implications for the current management standard.

Epidemiology of cancer in Saudi Arabia thru 2010-2019: a systematic review with constrained meta-analysis

Background

Cancer is emerging as a major global health-care system challenge with a growing burden worldwide. Due to the inconsistent cancer registry system in Saudi Arabia, the epidemiology of cancer is still dispersed in the country. Consequently, this review aimed to assemble the epidemiological metrics of cancer in Saudi Arabia in light of the available published data during the period from (2010–2019).

Methods

Published literature from Saudi Arabia relating to cancer incidence, prevalence, risk factors, and other epidemiological metrics were accessed through electronic search in Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, and public database that meet the inclusion criteria. Relevant keywords were used during the electronic search about different types of cancers in Saudi Arabia. No filters were used during the electronic searches. Data were pooled and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to assess the well-determined risk factors associated with different types of cancers.

Results

The most common cancers in Saudi Arabia are breast, colorectal, prostate, brain, lymphoma, kidney and thyroid outnumbering respectively. Their prevalence rates and OR (95%CI) as follow: breast cancer 53% and 0.93 (0.84–1.00); colon-rectal cancer (CRC) 50.9% and 1.2 (0.81–1.77); prostate cancer 42.6% and 3.2 (0.88–31.11); brain/Central Nervous System cancer 9.6% and 2.3 (0.01–4.2); Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma 9.2% and 3.02 (1.48–6.17); kidney cancer 4.6% and 2.05 (1.61–2.61), and thyroid cancer 12.9% and 6.77 (2.34–19.53).

Conclusion

Within the diverse cancers reported from Saudi Arabia, the epidemiology of some cancers magnitude 3-fold in the latest years. This increase might be attributed to the changing in the Saudi population lifestyle (adopting western model), lack of cancer awareness, lack of screening & early detection programs, social barriers toward cancer investigations. Obesity, genetics, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, viral infection, and iodine & Vit-D deficiency represent the apparent cancer risk factors in Saudi Arabia.

Right sided colorectal cancer increases with age and screening should be tailored to reflect this: a national cancer database study

BACKGROUND

In the United States, colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and surveillance is recommended until age 75. However, rates of surgery for CRC are greatest in the elderly, questioning current guidelines. Tumor sidedness is an emerging prognostic marker that may help guide screening and treatment decisions, with specific benefit evaluating CRC anatomic distribution in the elderly. Our objective was to investigate the anatomical distribution of CRC in the elderly and factors associated with right-sidedness.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (2004-2016) was used to identify elderly patients with CRC. Cases were stratified by tumor sidedness and elderly subgroups: 65-74, 75-84, and ≥ 85 years of age, and further categorized by primary site. Multivariate analysis identified factors associated with CRC right-sidedness. The outcomes were CRC sidedness in the elderly, the anatomic distribution by age group, and factors associated with right-sidedness.

RESULTS

There were 508,219 colorectal cancer patients aged over 65 years identified, 54% of whom had a right-sided cancer. The right-sided incidence rates by age group were 49% (65-74 years), 58.2% (75-84 years), and 65.9% (≥ 85 years) (p < 0.001). Variables associated with right-sidedness were age (OR 1.032; 95% CI 1.031-1.033; p < 0.001), female sex (OR 1.541; 95% CI 1.522-1.561; p < 0.001), Medicare (OR 1.023, 95% CI 1.003-1.043; p = 0.027), year of diagnosis ≥ 2010 (OR 1.133; 95% CI 1.119-1.147; p < 0.001), tumor size > 5 cm (OR 1.474; 95% CI 1.453-1.495; p < 0.001), pathologic stage IV (OR 1.036; 95% CI 1.012-1.060; p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

We found higher rates of right-sided colon cancer in the 75 and above age group. This is a population who would benefit greatly from a high-quality and complete colonoscopy for early diagnosis. As screening and surveillance for this age group are not currently recommended, our findings question the lack of universal recommendation of colonoscopy in patients over 75 years old. Guidelines for CRC screening and surveillance should consider the colon cancer right-shift in the elderly population. Based on these results, we recommend thorough assessment of the proximal colon in the elderly.

The Liquid Biopsy in the Management of Colorectal Cancer: An Overview

Currently, there is a crucial need for novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers with high specificity and sensitivity in patients with colorectal cancer. A "liquid biopsy" is characterized by the isolation of cancer-derived components, such as circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and proteins, from peripheral blood or other body fluids and their genomic or proteomic assessment. The liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive and repeatable technique that could play a significant role in screening and diagnosis, and predict relapse and metastasis, as well as monitoring minimal residual disease and chemotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer patients. However, there are still some practical issues that need to be addressed before liquid biopsy can be widely used in clinical practice. Potential challenges may include low amounts of circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA in samples, lack of pre-analytical and analytical consensus, clinical validation, and regulatory endorsement. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge of the role of liquid biopsy in the management of colorectal cancer.

Effects of Alternative Offers of Screening Sigmoidoscopy and Colonoscopy on Utilization and Yield of Endoscopic Screening for Colorectal Neoplasms: Protocol of the DARIO Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are recommended screening options for colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite colonoscopy being offered for CRC screening in Germany, the uptake of this offer has been very limited.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the potential for increasing use of endoscopic CRC screening and the detection of advanced colorectal neoplasms by offering the choice between use of flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy.

METHODS

The DARIO study includes a cross-sectional study (part I), followed by a prospective 2-arm randomized controlled intervention trial (part II) with an associated biobank study (part III). Participation is possible in part I of the DARIO study only, parts I and II, or all 3 study parts. After obtaining informed consent from the municipalities, 12,000 people, aged 50-54 years, from the Rhine-Neckar region in Germany were randomly selected from residential lists of the responsible population registries and invited to complete a standardized questionnaire to investigate the nature, frequency, timing, and results of previous CRC screening and eventual diagnostic colonoscopies. In study part II participants from study part I with no colonoscopy in the preceding 5 years are randomized into 2 arms: arm A offering screening colonoscopy only, and arm B offering both options, either screening colonoscopy or screening sigmoidoscopy. The primary endpoint is the proportion of participants in whom colorectal neoplasms >0.5 cm are detected and removed at screening endoscopy. The secondary endpoints are the detection rate of any neoplasm and use of any endoscopic screening. Part III of the study will use samples from participants in study part II to construct a liquid and tissue biobank for the evaluation of less invasive methods of early detection of colon cancer and for the more detailed characterization of the detected neoplasms. Blood, urine, stool, and saliva samples are taken before the endoscopy. Tissue samples are obtained from the neoplasms removed during endoscopy.

RESULTS

A total of 10,568 from 12,000 randomly selected women and men aged 50-54 years living in the Rhine-Neckar-Region of Germany have been invited for participation. The remaining 1432 (11.93%) could not be invited because they reached the age of 55 at the time of contact. Of those invited, 2785/10,568 (26.35%) participated in study part I; 53.60% (1493/2785) of these participants were female. Study parts II and III are ongoing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will answer the question if alternative offers of either screening sigmoidoscopy or screening colonoscopy will increase utilization and effectiveness of endoscopic CRC screening compared with an exclusive offer of screening colonoscopy. In addition, alternative noninvasive screening tests will be developed and validated.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00018932; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do? navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00018932.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/17516.

Gone but Not Forgotten: Ovarian Metastasis From a Colon Carcinoma in a 19-Year-Old Female

Ovarian tumors occurring secondarily to metastatic colorectal carcinoma remain a rare occurrence. Since ovarian tumors remain predominantly asymptomatic in the initial stages, they are often diagnosed incidentally. The vague, non-specific symptoms elicited by a secondary ovarian carcinoma, coupled with a histopathology remarkably similar to that evoked by primary ovarian tumors, render its ascertainment a diagnostic challenge. We hereby delineate an interesting case of a metachronous ovarian adenocarcinoma in a 19-year-old patient with a prior medical history significant for colorectal carcinoma treated with hemicolectomy. Subsequent diagnostic workup divulged a mass in her left adnexal region, which was ultimately diagnosed as a metastatic colon adenocarcinoma to the ovary. Unfortunately, the patient succumbed to the aggressive malignancy and did not survive. We therefore aim to accentuate the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas fomented by ovarian adenocarcinomas that arise secondarily to primary colorectal cancers.

Is Colorectal Cancer Screening Appropriate in Nigeria?

PURPOSE

The global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) will continue to increase for the foreseeable future, largely driven by increasing incidence and mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Nigeria.

METHODS

We used the Wilson-Jungner framework (1968) to review the literature relevant to CRC screening in Nigeria and propose areas for future research and investment.

RESULTS

Screening is effective when the condition sought is both important and treatable within the system under evaluation. The incidence of CRC is likely increasing, although the exact burden of disease in Nigeria remains poorly understood and access to definitive diagnosis and treatment has not been systematically quantified. In high-income countries (HICs), CRC screening builds on a well-known natural history. In Nigeria, a higher proportion of CRC seems to demonstrate microsatellite instability, which is dissimilar to the molecular profile in HICs. Prospective trials, tissue banking, and next-generation sequencing should be leveraged to better understand these potential differences and the implications for screening. Fecal immunochemical test for hemoglobin (FIT) is recommended for LMICs that are considering CRC screening. However, FIT has not been validated in Nigeria, and questions about the impact of high ambient temperature, endemic parasitic infection, and feasibility remain unanswered. Prospective trials are needed to validate the efficacy of stool-based screening, and these trials should consider concomitant ova and parasite testing.

CONCLUSION

Using the Wilson-Jungner framework, additional work is needed before organized CRC screening will be effective in Nigeria. These deficits can be addressed without missing the window to mitigate the increasing burden of CRC in the medium to long term.