Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in western countries. CRC screening programs have been implemented in order to reduce the burden of the disease. Screening programs in Spain are based on the biennial detection of fecal hemoglobin with a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and a diagnostic colonoscopy if positive. The detection of at least one advanced adenoma or serrated lesion defines a high risk situation for metachronous CRC. This group of patients is recommended to perform endoscopic surveillance with different intervals between explorations. Endoscopic surveillance reduces mortality only 1.7% and increases the number of colonoscopies by 62% with an additional cost of € 68,000 for an increase of 0.9 years of life. Moreover, colonoscopy is a procedure associated with potentially serious side effects.
A recently British study shows that with a cut-off of 10 µg/g, FIT has a higher sensitivity and specificity for CRC with a significant cost reduction compared to colonoscopy surveillance. Additionally, most of the population prefers non-invasive faecal tests rather than colonoscopy.
Based on this evidence, the research group have designed a multicenter, randomized clinical trial to compare the 10 year CRC incidence after resection of advanced colonic lesions detected within CRC screening programs between endoscopic surveillance and participation in CRC screening programs based on FIT.
Apart from this purpose, the investigators will also assess the values and preferences regarding surveillance and risk of CRC. Further, the research group will evaluate the relationship between Mediterranean diet and physical activity with the detection of advanced adenomas and CRC.
