Early detection of colon cancer in family medicine practice

Abstract:

Increasing incidence of colon cancer in Croatia indicates the need for more extensive preventive measures against the disease. The National Early Detection of Colon Cancer Program based on faecal occult blood testing has begun in 2007 with an aim of decreasing mortality from colon cancer by 15% over the following five-year period and covering 75% of the population by 2015. The National Program is implemented by county institutes of public health through sending invitation letters to persons aged between 50 and 74 year to take part in colon cancer screening. The recorded response rate has been only 21,3%. On the other hand, the Screening Program for Colon Cancer in Osijek implemented through family practice showed higher motivation of the population to participate in the screening, because 70% of contacted persons returned the samples for analysis. This screening method was shown to be quick, simple and acceptable to the population. Family practice in Croatia meets the technical and staff requirements for implementation of such a program; however, additional education is needed. Also, family doctors should be adequately rewarded for their screening work.

Key words:
colonic neoplasms; family practice; mass screening; national health program; secondary prevention