ASGE is also encouraged by the report’s statement that if current trends persist, death rates from colorectal cancer could decline 36 percent by 2020 and there could be as much as a 50 percent decline if there are further improvements in risk factor control, screening and treatment.
The study, conducted by the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries, noted that colon cancer screening appeared to have had a considerable impact on reducing the incidence and mortality rates, according to the release.
However, the study did note the greatest decline in new colorectal cancer diagnoses in patients 65 years and older, whereas patients younger than age 50 showed an increase in diagnoses, according to the release. The causes for this increase are still unknown, but possibilities include increased screening among people before age 50 due to family history or genetic factors, increased awareness of colorectal cancer symptoms, which prompts people to see their doctor, and the increasing prevalence of obesity and poor diet and lifestyle habits. Modifiable risk factors for colorectal cancer include physical inactivity, obesity, a diet high in red and processed meats and tobacco use.
“This report is a testament to the effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening. Everyone should get screened for colorectal cancer beginning at age 50,” Jacques Van Dam, MD, PhD, FASGE, president of ASGE, said in the release. “African-Americans and people with certain risk factors, including a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, may need to start screening at an earlier age. While these statistics are very encouraging, too few people are being screened for this largely preventable disease. Patients should talk to their doctor about an appropriate screening schedule.”
Read the ASGE’s release about the decline in colon cancer incidence and death.
