Masterclass: Colorectal Screening Plus (Virtual) | September 2025-Hosseini-Carroll Enhancing Outcomes with ASGE 2025

Hosseini-Carroll Enhancing Outcomes with ASGE 2025

Pdf Summary

This document, presented by Dr. Pegah Hosseini-Carroll, highlights initiatives by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) screening outcomes, emphasizing health equity and quality in endoscopy practices.<br /><br />The ASGE Colorectal Cancer Screening Project addresses the significant issue of low completion colonoscopy rates following abnormal stool-based CRC screening results, particularly among uninsured and underinsured populations. Funded primarily by grants from Exact Sciences and others, the project aims to create a sustainable model ensuring timely follow-up colonoscopies. Key efforts include patient navigation services, education, and outreach in Georgia and Maryland, data collection on barriers, and advocacy for state funding. Findings will be disseminated through a playbook and strategic communications to encourage policy adoption in other states.<br /><br />Parallelly, the ASGE’s Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program (EURP) promotes quality and safety in endoscopy units. It sets rigorous standards around staff competency, infection control, procedure quality metrics, and continuous quality improvement. Units earning the ASGE Quality Star benefit from marketing advantages, team education, and public quality reporting.<br /><br />Key takeaways from the masterclass emphasize that CRC is the second leading cause of cancer deaths, with rising incidence in younger populations prompting updated screening guidelines (starting at age 45). Stool-based tests are cost-effective for average-risk individuals but require follow-up colonoscopy for abnormal results; however, completion rates remain suboptimal due to barriers like access, insurance, and system communication issues. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for detection and intervention. Quality factors such as bowel preparation, adenoma detection rates, and documentation critically influence outcomes, urging continuous monitoring.<br /><br />In sum, ASGE’s combined efforts in advocacy, education, quality enhancement, and policy aim to increase CRC screening effectiveness and equity, ultimately reducing mortality.

Keywords

Colorectal Cancer Screening

ASGE

Colonoscopy Completion Rates

Health Equity

Patient Navigation

Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program

Quality Improvement

Screening Guidelines Age 45

Stool-based Tests

Cancer Mortality Reduction