22 Jul 2024 • A single flexible sigmoidoscopy screening at age 55–64 years dramatically cuts colorectal cancer (CRC) rates and deaths for up to 21 years, according to a major UK trial.

• Findings from the study of over 1,70,000 participants revealed a 24% reduction in cancer incidence and a 25% drop in mortality for those screened vs. those who were not.

• The greatest benefits were seen in distal CRC, with a 41% drop in incidence & a 45% reduction in mortality. Screening's impact was greater in men with a significant 30% decline in incidence compared to 14% in women.

• The study findings significantly enhance colorectal cancer screening guidelines and cost-effectiveness analyses, thereby enhancing resource efficiency and patient benefits.

Source:Lancet| Read full story