Colonoscopic screening in early detection of colorectal cancer in high-risk groups: a prospective study

Introduction Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the world's third most common malignant neoplasm. In Egypt, a small incidence of CRC and a high proportion of young-onset disease is observed. Colonoscopy is commonly used for neoplastic colorectal screening. The aim of this work was to assess colonoscopy in high-risk groups as a screening and diagnostic method for early detection of CRC. Patients and methods The study included 200 patients, with age varying from 20 to 83 (mean: 53.42 +/- 15.50) years. They were presented to GIT Surgery Unit, Alexandria University Hospital, complaining of lower gastrointestinal tract symptoms and/or high risk of CRC over 9 months. Two professional endoscopists have performed 200 colonoscopies over 9 months. Results Total colonoscopy was done in 94% of cases, and the biopsies were tested. Colorectal polyps were observed in 54 (27%) patients. Of these polyps, the most common were adenomatous polyps (81.5%). Colonic masses were typically seen in males in 22 (11%) cases. Adenocarcinomas were the most common of these masses, accounting for 9% of all cases. A total of 14 (7%) patients reported inflammatory conditions. 6.7% of all cases were diagnosed as colitis. Eight cases were diverticulosis, and 10 cases were hemorrhoid. Conclusion There is an increased rate of detection of adenoma by using screening colonoscopy among endoscopists. Colonoscopy is a valuable screening and diagnostic tool for early detection of CRC.