Screening for colorectal cancer in Nigeria

Abstract

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<jats:title>Background:</jats:title>
<jats:p>Colorectal cancer (CRC) is common in Africa including Nigeria contrary to popular opinion. Screening for CRC is cost-effective and reduces morbidity and mortality.</jats:p>
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<jats:title>Aim:</jats:title>
<jats:p>The aim of the study was to assess the practice of CRC screening among gastroenterology practitioners in Nigeria.</jats:p>
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<jats:title>Methods:</jats:title>
<jats:p>This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among gastroenterology practitioners attending their annual conference in 2016. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.</jats:p>
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<jats:title>Results:</jats:title>
<jats:p>A total of 65 respondents completed the questionnaire. The mean age was 37.68 years. Majority (95%) of the respondents practised in tertiary hospitals. Screening for CRC was practised by 54% of the respondents, with colonoscopy and guaiac fecal occult blood test being the preferred screening modalities. Indications for screening were mostly symptom based with varied protocols and outcomes.</jats:p>
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<jats:title>Conclusion:</jats:title>
<jats:p>The practice of CRC screening among gastroenterology practitioners in Nigeria is variable. There is a need to formulate national guidelines and colonoscopy quality control tools to improve awareness and standardize practice.</jats:p>
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