Faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use in Portugal: Results from the National Health Survey 2014

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2019

Authors

Khan, H (Author) Other; Shaaban, N (Author) Other; peleteiro, b (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Journal of Medical Screening

Vol. 27

Pages: 171-185

ISSN: 0969-1413

Publisher: SAGE

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 2 Citations

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00R-J5T

DOI: 10.1177/0969141319891456

Abstract (EN): Objectives Given the recent implementation of regional colorectal cancer screening programs in Portugal, understanding patterns of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use is essential to improve its control. We aimed to describe the use of both tests and to identify factors associated with its non- and under-use. Methods A sample of 7208 subjects aged 50-74 from the National Health Survey 2014 was examined. Previous experience of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy was classified as never or ever; ever-users, who had last undergone these tests more than 2 or 10 years before, respectively, were considered under-users. We computed age- and education-adjusted prevalence ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals for non- and under-use. Results Of the individuals in the screening age range, 36.9% had never undergone either test. The prevalence of non-use was 50.7% and 62.2% for faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy, and 27.4% and 6.0% of subjects under-used each test, respectively. The lowest prevalence of non- and under-use was found in the Norte region. Low socioeconomic status and unhealthy lifestyles were significantly associated with low testing; greater use was observed for those having more recent contact with healthcare services. Conclusions This study identifies patterns of colorectal cancer screening use, with regional disparities that have not yet been reduced by the implementation of organised screening programmes.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15