Colorectal Cancer
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Screening and Preventive Medicine Recommendations
The USPSTF recommends screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) using fecal occult blood testing, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy, in adults, beginning at age 50 years and continuing until age 75 years. The risks and benefits of these screening methods vary. (A)
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Colorectal cancer (also commonly called colon cancer) refers to cancer that occurs in the colon (large intestine or large bowel) or rectum (passageway that connects the colon to the anus). Most cases begin with a small, benign grouping of cells called polyps that become cancerous over time. These polyps are usually small and produce few, if any symptoms, which is why screening tests and other preventive measures are essential in preventing colorectal cancer.
Why Employers Should Care?
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and men and the second leading cancer killer for both men and women.1
- New cases estimated for 2010: 142,5701
- Deaths estimated for 2010: 51,3701
- The lifetime treatment cost of colorectal cancer is $7000 more for the regional stage when the cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the same area, and $16,000 for distant stage or metastatic colorectal cancer.2
- If a relative has been diagnosed with this type cancer before age 60, screening could be beneficial for individuals younger than 50.
- The choice of the type of screening should depend on the individual and the practice setting, and clinicians should talk to their patients about benefits and harms of each test.
- Several cost-effectiveness studies have shown that the cost-effectiveness ratio values for colorectal cancer screening were between $10,000-$25,000 per life-year saved.
The mortality rate from colorectal cancer has been decreasing for the past 15 years. Thanks to colorectal cancer screening, polyps can be detected and removed before they develop into cancer.
What Employers Should Do?
- Educate employees about colorectal cancer and the importance of routine screening. Both men and women over 50 should be regularly screened for this during their routine physician visits.
- Ensure that health plans are promoting screening to all patients over 50. Health plans and providers are also a source of information on colorectal cancer and promotion for routine screening.
- Encourage healthy lifestyles and worksite health promotion programs. It has been suggested that diets high in fiber can reduce the occurrence of polyps as well as colon cancer. Smoking cessation, vitamin D consumption, reducing alcohol consumption, and aspirin intake also help to reduce the risk for cancer.
Business Group Resources on Colorectal Cancer Screening
New Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations, May 2009
Other Resources
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