Flexible sigmoidoscopy screening for colorectal cancer: uptake in a population-based pilot programme

Robb, K.A. , Power, E., Kralj-Hans, I., Edwards, R., Vance, M., Atkin, W. and Wardle, J. (2010) Flexible sigmoidoscopy screening for colorectal cancer: uptake in a population-based pilot programme. Journal of Medical Screening, 17(2), pp. 75-78. (doi: 10.1258/jms.2010.010055)

Abstract

<p>Objective: The aim of this study was is to examine uptake of population-based, flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) screening delivered by nurses in a socioeconomically and ethnically diverse area of London, England.</p> <p>Methods: All adults aged 58 and 59 years registered at 34 general practices in North London (n = 2260) were mailed an invitation to attend FS screening at the local hospital.</p> <p>Results: In total, 45% (1024/2260) accepted the invitation and attended, 5% (114/2260) accepted the invitation but failed to attend, 5% (111/2260) accepted the invitation but were unable to attend within the time-frame of the pilot study, 7% (165/2260) declined the offer, 27% (602/2260) did not respond, and 11% (244/2260) were ineligible or did not receive the invitation. Among those eligible to be screened, the uptake rate was 51% (1024/2016). Uptake did not differ by gender, but people living in the most affluent quintile of areas had a substantially higher uptake rate (63%) than those living in the most deprived quintile (38%).</p> <p>Conclusion: Uptake of FS screening delivered as a population-based programme was over 50% among the eligible population in a socioeconomically and ethnically diverse area of London. Disparities in uptake should be addressed to avoid exacerbating health inequalities.</p>

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Robb, Professor Katie
• Authors: Robb, K.A., Power, E., Kralj-Hans, I., Edwards, R., Vance, M., Atkin, W., and Wardle, J.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > General Practice and Primary Care; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Journal Name: Journal of Medical Screening
• ISSN: 0969-1413
• ISSN (Online): 1475-5793