ASGE Postgraduate Course at ACG: Evidence-based Updates for the Practicing Gastroenterologist (On-Demand) | October 2021 OLPGATACG21-Screening and Surveillance for Colon Cancer in 2021 and Beyond

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Jennifer Christie discusses the screening and surveillance for colon cancer in 2021 and beyond. She begins by highlighting the decline in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality in recent years due to the work of primary care doctors and increased patient screening. However, she emphasizes that colorectal cancer still remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Dr. Christie discusses racial and ethnic disparities in screening and outcomes, noting that African Americans, American Indian and Alaskan Natives have the highest incidence and death rates for colorectal cancer. Hispanic populations have the lowest incidence and death rates but also lower screening rates. <br /><br />She goes on to discuss the various guidelines for starting and stopping screening for colorectal cancer in average-risk individuals. The American Cancer Society recommendations suggest screening starting at age 45, while the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently recommended the same starting age based on moderate certainty of the benefits. Dr. Christie explains the different screening modalities available, including stool-based tests and visual tests such as colonoscopy and CT colonography. She also discusses the potential harms associated with each modality and the importance of high-quality and timely testing. Dr. Christie concludes by discussing when to stop screening, considering factors such as patient age, comorbidities, and life expectancy, and the importance of shared decision-making with patients. She also mentions additional resources available on the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) website for physicians and patients seeking more information on colonoscopy.

Asset Subtitle

Jennifer A. Christie, MD, FASGE

Keywords

colon cancer screening

racial disparities

screening rates

guidelines

colonoscopy

shared decision-making