In France, screening for colorectal cancer is very insufficient. However, it makes it possible to avoid dying in 90% of cases.
- Over the 2018-2019 period, only 30.5% of French people affected by the increased risk of colorectal cancer were screened.
- Organized screening for colorectal cancer is aimed at women and men aged 50 to 74, presenting neither symptoms nor risk factors other than age.
In honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, the National Cancer Institute (Inca) provides an update on screening for this cancer and its benefits.
The latest figures published by Public Health France in May 2020 show a largely insufficient participation of the populations concerned by this screening (16.5 million people). Over the 2018-2019 period, only 30.5% of them took part in this program. “A rate down by 1.4 percentage points compared to the 2017-2018 period, and which remains well below the minimum European recommendations of 45%”, laments the Inca.
Second leading cause of cancer death in France
With more than 17,000 deaths recorded in 2018, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in France. In 2018, more than 43,300 cases were detected. This cancer affects both women (more than 20,100 cases) and men (more than 23,200 cases).
However, in 90% of cases, colorectal cancer can be cured when detected at an early stage. Diagnosed at a more advanced stage, its treatment is heavier, more restrictive, and its results uncertain.
Very simple, screening is done at home
Organized screening for colorectal cancer is aimed at women and men aged 50 to 74, presenting neither symptoms nor risk factors other than age. Every 2 years, the people concerned are invited by mail to carry out a screening test.
The Inca recalls that “This screening is carried out at home and it encourages the entire population concerned to take this screening test, the effectiveness of which has been widely demonstrated”. It consists of a single sample of stool using a stick, which is then placed in an airtight tube guaranteeing its preservation. The test and the information sheet sent with the kit should be sent via the envelope provided to the medical biology laboratory, whose contact details appear on it.
.
