Journal: Scientific reports
This study focuses on developing a colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program tailored to Romania’s healthcare system. The goal is to improve screening adherence and reduce both CRC incidence and mortality.
A multidisciplinary panel from 19 countries used a modified Delphi process to create consensus recommendations for average-risk individuals. Key points include:
- Starting screening at age 45 and continuing up to age 75, with selective extension to age 85 for healthy individuals.
- Placing primary care physicians at the center of risk assessment and patient engagement.
- Emphasizing region-specific, patient-centered strategies that offer multiple testing options, including colonoscopy, fecal immunochemical testing, and CT colonography, to maximize participation.
- Implementing a centralized system for invitations, result tracking, and patient recall.
This harmonized framework is designed to be scalable and adaptable to local resources and demographics, aiming to enhance early detection and prevention of CRC in Romania.