Aug. 25, 2011: In a recent study conducted in the American mid-west, 415 patients aged 50 to 80, who were due for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, completed a survey to find out what information they looked for when making a decision about screening. Patients said these factors were very important: * pros and cons of testing (86%) * test accuracy (85%) * testing alternatives (83%) * testing process (78%)
The study, headed by Susan Flockel, Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, then convened to 64 primary care physician’s office, where audio was recorded for analysis. Although 91% of visits included a discussion about CRC screening, only 5% of physicians asked patients if they had questions about screening. Almost half (49%) of patients asked a screening question, mostly to do with logistics.
The researchers conclude that “Audio recordings confirm that discussions of CRC screening are often lacking information that patients indicate is very important when making preventive health decisions and patient questions during the visit are not eliciting information to fill the gap. These findings provide actionable information to improve CRC screening discussions. ”
Psychosocial and information needs of people affected by colorectal cancer are poorly met during follow-up Evidence Based Nursing - Online March 17 2011 “Follow-up and aftercare services for people affected by colorectal cancer should place more emphasis on aspects of patient needs (such as quality of life, lifestyle advice, psychosocial issues, information needs and self-management) in making the transition into the survivorship period. Nurses have a key role to play in this. Nurse-led models of follow-up may be favourable in providing information tailored towards patient needs and outcomes; more research is needed in this area to determine feasibility, acceptability and impact on outcomes.”
Cancer incidence within a cohort occupationally exposed to asbestos: a study of dose–response relationships Occup Environ Med 2011; Published Online 15 March 2011 “While confirming the established relationship between asbestos exposure and pleuropulmonary and peritoneal cancers, this study also suggests a causal relationship between asbestos exposure and colorectal cancer.”
Risk factors for colonic and rectal cancer mortality: evidence from 40 years' follow-up in the Whitehall I study Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health 2011; online March 9 2011 “Smoking significantly increases mortality from colorectal cancer and its decreasing prevalence in the UK may partly explain falling mortality from the disease.”
