Colorectal cancer screening in the COVID-19 era

Racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in colorectal cancer screening in a large organization with universal insurance before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic

OBJECTIVES

Israel is regarded as a country with a developed economy and a moderate income inequality index. In this population-based study, we aimed to measure the inequalities in colorectal cancer screening within Clalit Health, an organization with universal insurance, before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

SETTING

Retrospective analysis within Clalit Health Services, Israel.

METHODS

We evaluated the rate of being up to date with screening (having a colonoscopy within 10 years or a fecal occult blood test within 1 year) and the colonoscopy completion rate (having a colonoscopy within 6 months of a positive fecal occult blood test) among subjects aged 50-75 in 2019-2021.

RESULTS

In 2019, out of 918,135 subjects, 61.3% were up to date with screening; high socioeconomic status: 65.9% (referent), medium-socioeconomic status: 60.1% (odds ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval 0.80-0.82), low-socioeconomic status: 59.0% (odds ratio 0.75, 95% confidence interval 0.74-0.75); Jews: 61.9% (referent), Arabs: 59.7% (odds ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.90-0.92), Ultraorthodox-Jews: 51.7% (odds ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.75-0.78). Out of 21,308 with a positive fecal occult blood test, the colonoscopy completion rate was 51.8%; high-socioeconomic status: 59.8% (referent), medium-socioeconomic status: 54.1% (odds ratio 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.73-0.86), low-socioeconomic status: 45.5% (odds ratio 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.56-0.65); Jews: 54.7% (referent), Ultraorthodox-Jews: 51.4% (odds ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.90-0.92), Arabs: 44.7% (odds ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.75-0.78). In 2020-2021, there was a slight drop in the rate of being up to date with screening, while most of the discrepancies were kept or slightly increased with time.

CONCLUSIONS

We report significant inequalities in colorectal cancer screening before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Israel, despite a declared policy of equality and universal insurance.

The Reach of Calls and Text Messages for Mailed FIT Outreach in the PROMPT Stepped-Wedge Colorectal Cancer Screening Trial

BACKGROUND

Mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) outreach can improve colorectal cancer screening participation. We assessed the reach and effectiveness of adding notifications to mailed FIT programs.

METHODS

We conducted secondary analyses of a stepped-wedge evaluation of an enhanced mailed FIT program (n = 15 clinics). Patients were stratified by prior FIT completion. Those with prior FIT were sent a text message (Group 1); those without were randomized 1:1 to receive a text message (Group 2) or live phone call (Group 3). All groups were sent automated phone call reminders. In stratified analysis, we measured reach and effectiveness (FIT completion within 6 months) and assessed patient-level associations using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 16,934; 83% Latino; 72% completed prior FIT) were reached most often by text messages (78%), followed by live phone calls (71%), then automated phone calls (56%). FIT completion was higher in patients with prior FIT completion versus without [44% (Group 1) vs. 19% (Group 2 + Group 3); P < 0.01]. For patients without prior FIT, effectiveness was higher in those allocated to a live phone call [20% (Group 3) vs. 18% (Group 2) for text message; P = 0.04] and in those who personally answered the live call (28% vs. 9% no call completed; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Text messages reached the most patients, yet effectiveness was highest in those who personally answered the live phone call.

IMPACT

Despite the broad reach and low cost of text messages, personalized approaches may more successfully boost FIT completion.

Disparate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delays in colorectal cancer treatment: A National Cancer Database study

BACKGROUND

Timely treatment for patients with colorectal cancer may have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We evaluated the impact of the pandemic on delays to treatment with surgery or systemic therapy for patients with colorectal cancer and delineated factors predictive of delayed treatment.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer were categorized by year of diagnosis as COVID-19 era (2020) versus pre-COVID-19 (2018-2019). Categorical variables were compared by χ2 analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess odds ratios for delayed time to surgery or chemoimmunotherapy, defined as >60 days.

RESULTS

In total, 50,689 patients colorectal cancer were diagnosed patients who were pre-COVID-19 vs 21,331 within the COVID-19-era. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 had a higher stage at diagnosis. There were no differences in the proportion of delayed time to surgery for patients diagnosed in 2020, but patients who were tested for COVID-19 had increased proportions of delayed time to surgery (P < .0001). In multivariate analysis, Black race (P = .0026) and uninsured/underinsured status (P = .0017) were associated with delayed time to surgery. Diagnosis during COVID-19 did not increase delayed time to chemoimmunotherapy, regardless of COVID-19 testing or positivity; however, delays were seen for Black (P < .0001), Hispanic (P < .0001), and uninsured/underinsured patients (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Although the pandemic did not delay treatment for colorectal cancer overall, vulnerable and underserved populations were disproportionately affected by delays to all forms of therapy. The difference in colorectal cancer outcomes in the coming years as a result of delays in treatment may be significant for these patients.

Management of colorectal cancer screening backlog due to the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective analysis of the use of a colorectal cancer screening clinical-decision support tool in Argentina

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic created a backlog in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and surveillance colonoscopies. The real impact in Argentina is not fully known.

GOAL

To estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on CRC prevention by comparing the number of CRC screening and surveillance consults in a clinical decision support-tool used in Argentina before, during and after pandemic lockdown.

METHODS

We analyzed data from May 2019 to December 2021 from CaPtyVa, a clinical decision support tool for CRC screening and surveillance. Queries were divided in pre-pandemic (May 2019 to March 2020), lockdown (April 2020 to December 2020), and post-lockdown (January 2021 to December 2021). The number of CRC monthly screening and surveillance visits were compared among the three periods and stratified according to CRC risk.

RESULTS

Overall, 27,563 consults were analyzed of which 9035 were screening and 18,528 were surveillance. Pre-pandemic, the median number of screening consults was 346 per month (IQR25-75 280-410). There was a decrease to 156 (80-210)/month (p<0.005) during lockdown that partially recovered during post-lockdown to 230 (170-290)/month (p=0.05). Pre-pandemic, the median number of surveillance consults was 716 (560-880)/month. They decreased to 354 (190-470)/month during lockdown (p<.05) and unlike screening, completely recovered during post-lockdown to 581 (450-790)/month.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a >50% decrease in the number of CRC screening and surveillance consults registered in CaPtyVa during lockdown in Argentina. Post-lockdown, surveillance consults recovered to pre-pandemic levels, but screening consults remained at 66% of pre-pandemic levels. This has implications for delays in CRC diagnoses and patient outcomes.

Why is early detection of colon cancer still not possible in 2023?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is a fundamental tool in the prevention and early detection of one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers. Over the years, screening, particularly in those settings where it is well organized, has succeeded in reducing the incidence of colon and rectal cancer and improving the prognosis related to them. Despite considerable advancements in screening technologies and strategies, the effectiveness of CRC screening programs remains less than optimal. This paper examined the multifaceted reasons behind the persistent lack of effectiveness in CRC screening initiatives. Through a critical analysis of current methodologies, technological limitations, patient-related factors, and systemic challenges, we elucidated the complex interplay that hampers the successful reduction of CRC morbidity and mortality rates. While acknowledging the advancements that have improved aspects of screening, we emphasized the necessity of addressing the identified barriers comprehensively. This study aimed to raise awareness of how important CRC screening is in reducing costs for this disease. Screening and early diagnosis are not only important in improving the prognosis of patients with CRC but can lead to an important reduction in the cost of treating a disease that is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Spending more sooner can mean saving money later.

Exploring hematic crasis variations in cancer patients following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: a real-practice study

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is strongly recommended, particularly for fragile patients such as those undergoing active oncological treatments. It is crucial to conduct post-marketing surveillance in this patient population. In our study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of real-world data, including 136 patients who received SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and were undergoing anticancer treatments between March 1st and June 30th, 2021. All patients received mRNA vaccines, namely Pfizer-BioNTech's COMIRNATY (BNT162b2 mRNA) and Moderna's mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccines. We collected blood samples from the patients one week to 10 days before and after vaccine administration to assess full blood count with white cell differentials. Additionally, we monitored serology titers to detect any previous SARS-CoV-2 infection before hospital admission and tracked changes over time. Our findings revealed a significant occurrence of leukopenia following both the first and second vaccine doses among patients receiving chemotherapy and chemo-immunotherapy. Importantly, this effect was independent of demographic factors such as sex, age, and Body Mass Index. In the chemo-immunotherapy treated group, we observed that concomitant immune-mediated diseases were significantly associated with leukopenia following the second vaccine dose. Notably, in healthy subjects, transient neutropenia was recognized as an adverse event following vaccination. The observed lymphocytopenia during SARS-CoV-2 infection, combined with the impact on leukocyte counts observed in our study, underscores the need for larger post-marketing surveillance studies. Despite a treatment delay occurring in 6.6% of patients, the administration of mRNA vaccines did not have a significant impact on the treatment schedule in our series. These findings from a real-world setting provide valuable insights and suggest avenues for further prospective studies to explore potential complex interactions specific to this patient population.

Assessing Changes in Colon Cancer Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Four-Year Analysis at a Romanian University Hospital

This retrospective study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the surgical management of patients with colon cancer in a tertiary University Hospital in Timisoara, Romania. Data from 867 patients who underwent surgical interventions for this condition between 26 February 2019 and 25 February 2023 were meticulously analyzed to evaluate substantial shifts in the management and outcomes of these patients in comparison to the pre-pandemic era. The results reveal a substantial decrease in elective surgical procedures (p < 0.001) and a significant increase in emergency interventions (p < 0.001). However, postoperative mortality did not show significant variations. Of concern is the diagnosis of patients at more advanced stages of colon cancer, with a significant increase in Stage IV cases in the second year of the pandemic (p = 0.045). Average hospitalization durations recorded a significant decrease (p < 0.001) during the pandemic, and an inverse correlation between patient age and surgery duration was reported (p = 0.01, r = -0.088). This analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on how the pandemic has influenced the management of colon cancer, highlighting significant implications for the management and outcomes of these patients.

Mining Google Trends data for nowcasting and forecasting colorectal cancer (CRC) prevalence

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent and second most lethal form of cancer in the world. Consequently, CRC cancer prevalence projections are essential for assessing the future burden of the disease, planning resource allocation, and developing service delivery strategies, as well as for grasping the shifting environment of cancer risk factors. However, unlike cancer incidence and mortality rates, national and international agencies do not routinely issue projections for cancer prevalence. Moreover, the limited or even nonexistent cancer statistics for large portions of the world, along with the high heterogeneity among world nations, further complicate the task of producing timely and accurate CRC prevalence projections. In this situation, population interest, as shown by Internet searches, can be very important for improving cancer statistics and, in the long run, for helping cancer research.

Methods

This study aims to model, nowcast and forecast the CRC prevalence at the global level using a three-step framework that incorporates three well-established univariate statistical and machine-learning models. First, data mining is performed to evaluate the relevancy of Google Trends (GT) data as a surrogate for the number of CRC survivors. The results demonstrate that population web-search interest in the term "colonoscopy" is the most reliable indicator to nowcast CRC disease prevalence. Then, various statistical and machine-learning models, including ARIMA, ETS, and FNNAR, are trained and tested using relevant GT time series. Finally, the updated monthly query series spanning 2004-2022 and the best forecasting model in terms of out-of-sample forecasting ability (i.e., the neural network autoregression) are utilized to generate point forecasts up to 2025.

Results

Results show that the number of people with colorectal cancer will continue to rise over the next 24 months. This in turn emphasizes the urgency for public policies aimed at reducing the population's exposure to the principal modifiable risk factors, such as lifestyle and nutrition. In addition, given the major drop in population interest in CRC during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the findings suggest that public health authorities should implement measures to increase cancer screening rates during pandemics. This in turn would deliver positive externalities, including the mitigation of the global burden and the enhancement of the quality of official statistics.

Changes in uptake of stool-based colorectal cancer screening during the Covid-19 pandemic

PURPOSE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is underutilized and endoscopic colon screening includes a number of barriers that were exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. At-home stool-based screening (SBS) increased during the pandemic and potentially reached eligible adults hesitant to be screened by endoscopy. The purpose of this analysis was to examine the change in uptake of SBS during the pandemic among adults not screened within guidelines by endoscopy.

METHODS

We used data from the 2019 and 2021 National Health Interview Surveys to estimate uptake of SBS among adults aged 50-75 years, without a previous diagnosis of CRC and without guideline-concordant endoscopic screening. We also examined provider recommendations for screening tests. To examine if changes in uptake differed during the pandemic by demographic and health characteristics, we combined survey years and ran logistic regression models with an interaction term for each factor and survey year.

RESULTS

In our study population, SBS increased 74% overall from 2019 to 2021 (8.7% to 15.1%; p < 0.001), with the largest percent increase among those aged 50-52 years (3.5% to 9.9%; p < 0.001). Among those aged 50-52 years, the ratio of endoscopy to SBS changed from 83%/17% in 2019 to 55%/45% in 2021. Cologuard was the only screening test where recommendations by healthcare providers significantly increased from 2019 (10.6% to 16.1%; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Use and recommendations for SBS increased substantially during the pandemic. Increased awareness among patients could potentially improve future CRC screening rates if uptake of SBS occurs among those unable or unwilling to be screened by endoscopy.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Modified Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Almaty, Kazakhstan

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program, incorporating culturally tailored strategies to increase screening uptake and compliance, in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Almaty between 2019-2022, involving 5370 participants aged 50-70 from diverse settings. Participants were assigned to the main (modified method) and comparison (standard method) groups based on the parity of their ID number digits. Variables of interest included demographics, somatic comorbidities, disability degree, and CRC screening results. The modified screening emphasized healthcare prioritization, optimized nursing resources, enhanced accessibility, and preparedness for the second screening stage.

RESULTS

In the study 2702 patients in the main group (modified method), and 2668 patients in the comparison group (standard method). Comorbidity data showed that the majority of participants in both groups had between 1-10 comorbidities, with an average of 8.2 in the main group and 8.1 in the comparison group. Screening response rates at stage I were higher in the main group, with 82.6% of subjects undergoing screening, compared to 78.9% in the comparison group (χ2=12.12, p=0.001). The response rates were higher among females in both groups, and no significant differences were found across age groups. At stage II, the response rate was again higher in the main group (56.2%) than in the comparison group (47.2%) (χ2=4.217, p=0.040), with no significant differences noted in relation to sex or age. However, the main group showed a higher response rate at stage I among respondents with 6-10 comorbidities (87.1% vs 82.5%, χ2 =7.820, p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates that the modified program significantly outperformed the traditional one, achieving higher response rates at both the initial and subsequent stages of screening. These findings emphasize the value of revisiting and refining current CRC screening methods to maximize early detection rates.

Rectal cancer presentation during the COVID-19 pandemic: Are decreasing screening rates leading to an increase in acute presentations?

Nearly 23 million adults ages 50-75 are overdue for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. In March 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid issued guidance that all non-urgent procedures be delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Screening delays may have effects on the presentation of rectal cancer and the natural history of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine if procedural suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increased proportion of acute presentations or more advanced stage at diagnosis for patients with rectal cancer. We conducted a single-center, retrospective review of adult patients with new or recurrent rectal adenocarcinoma from 2016-2021. We compared patients presenting before (pre-COVID) to those diagnosed after (COVID) March 1, 2020. Of 208 patients diagnosed with rectal cancer, 163 were diagnosed pre-COVID and 45 patients in the COVID group. Cohorts did not differ among age, sex, race, insurance status, marital status, rurality, or BMI. There was no difference in stage at presentation with the majority diagnosed with stage III disease (40.0% vs 33.3%, p = 0.26). Similar proportions of patients presented acutely (67.5% vs 64.4%, p = 0.71). Presenting symptoms were also similar between cohorts. On adjusted analysis, male sex, white race, and uninsured status were found to have significant impact acuity of presentation, while diagnosis before or after the onset of the pandemic remained non-significant (OR 1.25, 95% CI0.57-2.72; p = 0.59). While screening rates have decreased during the COVID pandemic, patients with rectal cancer did not appear to have an increased level of acuity or stage at presentation. These findings could result from the indolent nature of the disease and may change as the pandemic progresses.

The use of artificial intelligence to identify subjects with a positive FOBT predicted to be non-compliant with both colonoscopy and harbor cancer

BACKGROUND

Subjects with a positive Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) that are non-compliant with colonoscopy are at increased risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). Yet, in clinical practice, many remain non-compliant.

AIMS

To evaluate whether machine learning models (ML) can identify subjects with a positive FOBT predicted to be both non-compliant with colonoscopy within six months and harbor CRC (defined as the "target population").

METHODS

We trained and validated ML models based on extensive administrative and laboratory data about subjects with a positive FOBT between 2011 and 2013 within Clalit Health that were followed for cancer diagnosis up to 2018.

RESULTS

Out of 25,219 included subjects, 9,979(39.6%) were non-compliant with colonoscopy, and 202(0.8%) were both non-compliant and harbored cancer. Using ML, we reduced the number of subjects needed to engage from 25,219 to either 971 (3.85%) to identify 25.8%(52/202) of the target population, reducing the number needed to treat (NNT) from 124.8 to 19.4 or to 4,010(15,8%) to identify 55.0%(52/202) of the target population, NNT = 39.7.

CONCLUSION

Machine learning technology may help healthcare organizations to identify subjects with a positive FOBT predicted to be both non-compliant with colonoscopy and harbor cancer from the first day of a positive FOBT with improved efficiency.

The impact of COVID-19 on national program of colorectal cancer screening in Tehran, Iran: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of the healthcare system, including prevention, treatment, rehabilitation of diseases and health education; access to essential therapies; allocation of finance & facilities to health issues, and governance of diseases, including COVID-19 and other diseases. Consequently, the burden of COVID-19 was not only attributable to the multiorgan involvement and detailed presentation of the disease but also to the inadequate management of other diseases resulting from the exclusive allocation of resources and medical personnel to the pandemic crisis. Over the mentioned period, one observed deficiency was the lack of public and official favor for conventional screening protocols. To this end, this study aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on colorectal cancer (CRC) screening protocols at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran, in an effort to identify individuals at risk for CRC and provide them with intensive screening and therapy.

METHODS

This is an observational study comparing the number of candidates for CRC screening referred to primary, secondary, and tertiary health-care centers under supervision of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBMU), Tehran, Iran in a 2-year interval before and after COVID-19 pandemics. Patients with intermediate- and high-risk criteria for colorectal cancer were included in the study and were screened by fecal immunochemical test. Patients with positive or indeterminate fecal test results were further evaluated with colonoscopy in research institute for gastroenterology and liver diseases where is a tertiary referral center for CRC screening. Finally, the decrease percentage of screening tests and endoscopic findings during the pandemic period compared to pre-pandemic period was calculated and interpreted.

RESULTS

A significant decrease in the number of performed fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), referred positive FITs, and referred patients with positive alarm signs to the Research Institute of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (RIGLD) center inevitably led to a considerable decrease in the number of endoscopic findings, including high-risk adenomas, sessile serrated polyps, and even early-stage colorectal cancers (CRCs).

CONCLUSION

The disruption of screening protocols caused by the COVID-19 pandemic appears to increase the number of patients with high-grade and end-stage CRCs referred in the near future.

The clinical impact of COVID-19 on endoscopic surgery in Japan: Analysis of data from the National Clinical Database

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on elective endoscopic surgeries in Japan using the National Clinical Database.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological factors and surgical outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG), and laparoscopic low anterior resection (LLAR) and compared the monthly numbers of each procedure performed in 2020 with those in 2018 and 2019. The degree of infection in prefectures was classified into low and high groups.

Results

In 2020, the number of LCs (except for acute cholecystitis) was 76 079 (93.0% of that in 2019), the number of LDGs was 14 271 (85.9% of that in 2019), and the number of LLARs was 19 570 (88.1% of that in 2019). Although the number of robot-assisted LDG and LLAR cases increased in 2020, the growth rate was mild compared with that in 2019. There was little difference in the number of cases in the degree of infection in the prefectures. The numbers of LC, LDG, and LLAR cases decreased from May to June and recovered gradually. In late 2020, the proportion of T4 and N2 cases of gastric cancer and the number of T4 cases of rectal cancer increased compared with those in 2019. There was little difference between the proportions of postoperative complications and mortality in the three procedures between 2019 and 2020.

Conclusion

The number of endoscopic surgeries decreased in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the procedures were performed safely in Japan.

Impact of bariatric surgery on early-onset colorectal cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis is to determine the impact of bariatric surgery on the risk of early-onset colorectal neoplasia. This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA recommendations. It was registered in the PROSPERO international database. A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science) for completed studies until May 2022. The Search was made using a mixture of indexed terms and title, abstract and keywords. The search included terms: obese, surgical weight loss intervention, colorectal cancer, and colorectal adenomas. Studies that included bariatric intervention patient's vs non-surgical obese patients younger than 50 years were considered. Inclusion criteria were patients with BMI more than 35 kg/m² who underwent a colonoscopy. Studies with follow-up colonoscopy performed in less than 4 years after bariatric surgery and those that evaluated patients with a mean age difference of 5 or more years between groups were excluded. Outcomes analyzed in obese patients with surgical treatment vs control patients included colorectal cancer incidence. From 2008 to 2021, a total of 1536 records were identified. Five retrospective studies that included 48,916 patients were analyzed. Follow-up period ranged from 5 to 22.2 years. 20,663 (42.24%) patients underwent bariatric surgery and 28,253 (57.76%) were part of the control patients. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was performed in 14,400 (69.7%) individuals. The intervention and control group were similar in age range, proportion of female participants and initial body mass index (35-48.3 vs 35-49.3, respectively). 126/20663 (0.61%) patients in the bariatric surgery group and 175/28253 (0.62%) individuals in the control group presented CRC. In this meta-analysis, we were unable to demonstrate a significant impact of the Bariatric Surgery on EOCRC risk. Prospective trials with longer follow-up periods should be done to prove the colorectal cancer risk reduction.

Trends of colorectal cancer screening methods: an analysis of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 2018-2020

CONTEXT

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high mortality rate and a large financial burden. Therefore, it is imperative to screen appropriately for this disease. By evaluating trends in different CRC screening methods and evaluating screening methods based on sex and race, improvements in screening can be made.

OBJECTIVES

By analyzing data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), our primary objective was to evaluate trends in CRC screening methods from 2018 through 2020. Our secondary objectives were to investigate deviations in screening rates by sex and race/ethnicity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional design was utilized to analyze trends in CRC screening methods utilizing data from the BRFSS for the years 2018 through 2020. Sex and race were also analyzed to evaluate for deviations in screening rates.

RESULTS

All race/ethnicity groups most often completed colonoscopies, with all but individuals identifying as Hispanic having higher than 56% completion rates. Individuals reporting as Hispanic received more blood stool tests than other races at 23.4%. Average CRC screening among all methods showed that 89.7% of individuals who reported as being White completed screening, with 91.3% of individuals reporting as Black, and 81.9% with race not listed, completed screening. Individuals identifying as Asian (74.4%), American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN [79.2%]) and Hispanic (78.1%) had lower rates of screening overall.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that trends in CRC screening were similar across years for individuals who reported as being White or Black. We also found that those identifying as Asian, AI/AN, Hispanic, and those whose identifying race was not listed deviated across years. These latter groups were also less likely to have received colonoscopies, the gold standard of screening. Because CRC is oftentimes a preventable disease, the importance of appropriate screening cannot be emphasized enough.

Patient Attitudes and Barriers to Endoscopy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

After COVID-19 restrictions on nonessential procedures were lifted and safety protocols established, utilization rates of endoscopic procedures remained reduced.

AIMS

This study assessed patient attitudes and barriers to scheduling endoscopy during the pandemic.

METHODS

A survey was administered to patients with ordered procedures at a hospital-based setting (7/21/2020-2/19/2021) collecting demographic data, body mass index, COVID-19 relevant comorbidities, level of procedural urgency (defined by recommended scheduling window), scheduling and attendance, concerns, and awareness of safety measures.

RESULTS

The average respondent was female (63.8%), age 57.6 ± 14, White (72.3%), married (76.7%), insured (99.3%), affluent English speakers (92.3%) and highly educated (at least college 90.2%). Most reported moderate to excellent COVID-19 knowledge (96.6%). Of 1039 procedures scheduled, emergent cases accounted for 5.1%, urgent 55.3% and elective 39.4%. Respondents identified appointment convenience (48.53%) as the most frequent factor impacting scheduling, also noting concern for results (28.4%). Age (p = .022), native language (p = .04), education (p = .007), self-reported COVID knowledge (p = .002), and a desire to be COVID tested pre-procedure (p = .023) were associated with arrival, more commonly in an ambulatory surgical center than hospital (p = .008). Diabetes mellitus (p = .004) and an immunocompromised state (p = .009) were adversely related to attendance. Attitudes towards safety protocols did not affect scheduling. Multivariate analysis demonstrated age, education and COVID knowledgeability were associated with procedure completion.

CONCLUSIONS

Safety protocols and urgency levels were not associated with procedure completion. Pre-pandemic barriers to endoscopy persisted as dominant factors amid pandemic concerns.

Modifications in Primary Care Clinics to Continue Colorectal Cancer Screening Promotion During the COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 caused significant declines in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Health systems and clinics, faced with a new rapidly spreading infectious disease, adapted to maintain patient safety and address the effects of the pandemic on healthcare delivery. This study aimed to understand how CDC-funded Colorectal Cancer Control Program recipients and their partner health systems and clinics may have modified evidence-based intervention (EBI) implementation to promote CRC screening during the COVID-19 pandemic; to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing modifications; and to extract lessons that can be applied to support CRC screening, chronic disease management, and clinic resilience in the face of future public health crises. Nine recipients were selected to reflect the diversity inherent among all CRCCP recipients. Recipient and clinic partner staff answered unique sets of pre-interview questions to inform tailoring of interview guides that were developed using constructs from the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-based Implementation Strategies (FRAME-IS) and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). The study team then interviewed recipient, health system, and clinic partner staff incorporating pre-interview responses to focus each conversation. We employed a rapid qualitative analysis approach then conducted virtual focus groups with recipient representatives to validate emergent themes. Three modifications that emerged from thematic analysis include: (1) offering mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits for CRC screening with mail or drop off return; (2) increasing the use of patient education and engagement strategies; and (3) increasing the use of or improving automated patient messaging systems. With improved tracking and automated reminder systems, mailed FIT kits paired with tailored patient education and clear instructions for completing the test could help primary care clinics catch up on the backlog of missed screenings during COVID-19. Future research can assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of offering mailed FIT kits on maintaining or improving CRC screening, especially among people who are medically underserved.

Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on volume and surgeon professional fees generated by emergency general surgery procedures

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the dynamics of healthcare in the USA. In early 2020, most states issued orders to stop non-emergent elective surgeries. This contracted the overall revenue generated by the hospital systems. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on volume has not been well studied but effects on surgeon professional fees generated remains unexplored. The goal of this study was to assess if COVID-19 pandemic has affected surgeon professional fees and revenues generated from emergency general surgeries.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review to compare surgical case volume in 2019 and 2020. We obtained our data from a tertiary care referral center database. Data were collected from February to April of 2019 and 2020, corresponding to the duration of statewide ban on non-emergent surgical cases. We used the most reported current procedural terminology (CPT) Code for each surgical procedure to calculate the surgeon professional fees generated. We calculated the percentage difference in surgeon professional fees between 2019 and 2020 for comparison.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant decrease in daily emergent operations between 2019 and 2020 time periods (6.13/day vs 4.64/day). There was a statistically significant decrease in hospital admissions for appendicitis, cholecystitis, diverticulitis, skin and soft tissue infections, small bowel obstruction and GI bleed. Additionally, a statistically significant decrease in number of appendectomy, cholecystectomy, sigmoid colectomy with anastomosis, small bowel resection, operation for incarcerated and reducible hernia procedures was observed. There is a decline in surgeon professional fees generated in 2020 compared to 2019 for all emergent surgeries. When compared to 2019, we observed an increase of 238 more inquests in February to April of 2020, which is the same time period when we noticed a significant decrease in hospital admissions and procedures for emergency general surgery.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted surgical case volumes in 2020 compared to 2019. This includes both emergent and non-emergent cases. There is a need for more broad cost analysis which considers hospital expenditures and cost benefit analysis.

Clinical presentation, management, screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic

Management of colorectal cancer (CRC) was severely affected by the changes implemented during the pandemic, and this resulted in delayed elective presentation, increased emergency presentation, reduced screening and delayed definitive therapy. This review was conducted to analyze the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on management of CRC and to identify the changes made in order to adapt to the pandemic. We performed a literature search in PubMed, Medline, Index Medicus, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Reference Citation Analysis (https://www.referencecitationanalysis.com/) and Google Scholar using the following keywords in various combinations: Colorectal cancer, elective surgery, emergency surgery, stage upgrading, screening, surveillance and the COVID-19 pandemic. Only studies published in English were included. To curtail the spread of COVID-19 infection, there were modifications made in the management of CRC. Screening was limited to high risk individuals, and the screening tests of choice during the pandemic were fecal occult blood test, fecal immunochemical test and stool DNA testing. The use of capsule colonoscopy and open access colonoscopy was also encouraged. Blood-based tests like serum methylated septin 9 were also encouraged for screening of CRC during the pandemic. The presentation of CRC was also affected by the pandemic with more patients presenting with emergencies like obstruction and perforation. Stage migration was also observed during the pandemic with more patients presenting with more advanced tumors. The operative therapy of CRC was altered by the pandemic as more emergencies surgeries were done, which may require exteriorization by stoma. This was to reduce the morbidity associated with anastomosis and encourage early discharge from the hospital. There was also an initial reduction in laparoscopic surgical procedures due to the fear of aerosols and COVID-19 infection. As we gradually come out of the pandemic, we should remember the lessons learned and continue to apply them even after the pandemic passes.

Cancer incidence and mortality in Poland in 2019

The purpose of this paper is to offer the most important epidemiological indicators of malignant neoplasms in Poland for the year 2019. In 2019, the Polish National Cancer Registry received information on almost 171.2 thousand new cancer cases and 100.3 thousand cancer deaths. The most common male cancers were prostate (20.6%), lung (16.1%), colon (6.8%), bladder (6.4%), and rectal (4.2%) cancers. Age-standardized incidence rates were at 118 per 100,000 for prostate, 89 for lung, 40 for colon, 38 for bladder, and 23 for the rectum. The most prevalent female cancers encompassed breast (22.9%), lung (9.9%), corpus uteri (7.0%), colon (5.9%), and ovary (4.3%). Age-standardized incidence rate was at 95 per 100,000 for breast cancer, 40 for lung 40, 29 for corpus uteri, 24 for colon, and 18 for ovarian cancer. The five leading causes of male cancer deaths were cancer of the lung (27.4%), prostate (10.3%), colon (8.0%), bladder (5.8%), and stomach (5.7%). Age-standardized mortality rates were 100 per 100,000 for lung, 46 for prostate, 32 for colon, 24 for urinary bladder, and 22 for stomach cancer. Most female deaths due to cancer were caused by lung (17.9%), breast (15.1%), colon (7.7%), ovary (6.0%), pancreas (5.7%), and corpus uteri (4.0%) cancers. Age-standardized mortality rates were 39 per 100,000 for lung, 33 for breast, 17 for colon, 13 for ovarian, 13 for pancreatic, and 9 for corpus uteri cancer.

A Review of Cancer Screening Recommendations during the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Cancer screening tests are recommended to prevent cancer-associated mortality by detecting precancerous and cancerous lesions in early stages. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the utilization of preventive health care services. While there was a rise in the number of cancer screening tests beginning in late 2020, screenings remained 29%-36% lower than in the pre-pandemic era.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review article was to assist health care providers in identifying approaches for prioritizing patients and increasing breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

We used the scoping review framework to identify articles on PubMed and EBSCO databases. A total of 403 articles were identified, and 23 articles were selected for this review. Literature review ranged from January 1st, 2020 to September 30th, 2021.

RESULTS

The articles included two primary categories of recommendations: (1) risk stratification and triage to prioritize screenings and (2) alternative methods to conduct cancer screenings. Risk stratification and triage recommendations focused on prioritizing high-risk patients with an abnormal or suspicious result on the previous screening test, of certain age group and sex, having personal medical or family history of cancers, currently symptomatic, predisposed to hereditary cancers, and cancer-causing mutations. Other recommended strategies included: identifying areas facing most disparities, creating algorithms and using artificial intelligence to create cancer-risk scores, leveraging in-person visits to assess cancer risk, and providing the option of open access screenings where patients can schedule screenings and can be assigned a priority category by health care staff. Some recommended using telemedicine to categorize patients and determine screening-eligibility for patients with new complaints. Several articles noted the importance of implementing preventive measures such as COVID-19 screening prior to the procedures, maintaining hygiene measures, and social distancing in waiting rooms. Alternative screening methods which do not require an in-person clinic visit and can effectively screen patients for cancers included mailing self-collection sampling kits for cervical and colorectal cancers and implementing or expanding mobile screening units.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the COVID-19 pandemic had devastating effects on population health globally, it could be an opportunity to adapt and evolve cancer screening methods. Disruption often creates innovation, and focus on alternative methods for cancer screenings may help reach rural and under-resourced areas after the pandemic has ended.

CLINICALTRIAL

Global Impact of COVID-19 on Colorectal Cancer Screening: Current Insights and Future Directions

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought significant challenges to many aspects of healthcare delivery since the first reported case in early December 2019. Once in the body, SARS-CoV-2 can spread to other digestive organs, such as the liver, because of the presence of ACE2 receptors. Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the second-leading cause of death in the United States (US). Therefore, individuals are routinely screened using either endoscopic methods (i.e., flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy) or stool-based tests, as per the published guidelines. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recommended that all non-urgent surgical and medical procedures, including screening colonoscopies, be delayed until the pandemic stabilization. This article aims to review the impact of COVID-19 on CRC screening.

Nimble Approach: fast, adapting, calculating and ethically mindful approach to managing colorectal cancer screening programmes during a pandemic

OBJECTIVE

To describe a conceptual framework that provides understanding of the challenges encountered and the adaptive approaches taken by organised colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programmes during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN

This was a qualitative case study of international CRC screening programmes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with programme managers/leaders and programme experts, researchers and clinical leaders of large, population-based screening programmes. Data analysis, using elements of grounded theory, as well as cross-cases analysis was conducted by two experienced qualitative researchers.

RESULTS

19 participants were interviewed from seven programmes in North America, Europe and Australasia. A conceptual framework ('Nimble Approach') was the key outcome of the analysis. Four concepts constitute this approach to managing CRC screening programmes during COVID-19: Fast (meeting the need to make decisions and communicate quickly), Adapting (flexibly and creatively managing testing/colonoscopy capacity, access and backlogs), Calculating (modelling and actively monitoring programmes to inform decision-making and support programme quality) and Ethically Mindful (considering ethical conundrums emerging from programme responses). Highly integrated programmes, those with highly integrated communication networks, and that managed greater portions of the screening process seemed best positioned to respond to the crisis.

CONCLUSIONS

The Nimble Approach has potentially broad applications; it can be deployed to effectively respond to programme-specific challenges or manage CRC programmes during future pandemics, other health crises or emergencies.

Colorectal Cancer Screening: Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic and Possible Consequences

Colonoscopy procedure has been the key screening method to detect colorectal cancer (CRC). As a fatal disease, CRC needs early detection. The COVID-19 pandemic caused screening tests (colonoscopy) to be halted and delayed. As a result, there could be dire consequences such as later-stage or missed diagnosis or greater mortality. This report will analyze scientific literature pertaining to interrupted CRC screenings due to COVID-19 while drawing historical parallels from the 1918 flu pandemic. We conducted literature searches in the PubMed database as well as in Google Scholar. One of the main lessons learned from the 1918 flu pandemic was to employ social distancing to stop the spread of the virus. So, the global response at the start and peak of the COVID-19 pandemic was decreased hospital visits for any non-emergency cases. That led to a halt and delays in cancer (including CRC) screenings. The Medical community predicted this lag will cause more CRC cases and deaths in the future. However, reorganizing and changing screening method strategies were helpful during the ongoing pandemic. In conclusion, COVID-19 greatly affected CRC screening, including how we view the future of CRC screening. We can learn from this prospect to better prepare for future pandemics or other public health crises.