Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Colorectal Cancer Screening Kits
2. Multitarget DNA Testing for Colorectal Cancer
The study presented at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) 2024 Conference & Expo highlighted the effectiveness of the Cologuard at-home stool DNA testing kit in improving noncompliant colorectal cancer screenings by approximately 14%. Led by Brittany Strelow, DMSc, PA-C, of Mayo Clinic, the researchers aimed to increase completed screenings among non-compliant patients. Despite not meeting their 17% improvement goal, the study showed promising results with 14.4% of patients returning positive tests. Cologuard’s convenience and accuracy make it a preferred option for patients, emphasizing the importance of completing colorectal cancer screenings early. This innovative testing method offers a non-invasive and efficient solution for at-risk individuals.
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Mayo Clinic Study Shows Cologuard Kits Improve Colorectal Cancer Screening Compliance
A groundbreaking study conducted at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, has revealed the significant impact of the non-invasive, at-home multitarget stool DNA testing kit Cologuard on colorectal cancer (CRC) screening compliance. The study, presented at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) 2024 Conference & Expo in Houston, TX, showcased how this innovative approach could potentially revolutionize the way patients undergo CRC screenings.
An Innovative Approach to CRC Screening
Led by Brittany Strelow, DMSc, PA-C, the Mayo Clinic-based investigators aimed to address the issue of noncompliance to CRC screening among patients in southeast Minnesota. With the goal of improving routine screenings among non-compliant individuals, the team implemented a strategy involving the use of Cologuard testing kits as an alternative to traditional colonoscopy referrals.
Improving Screening Rates
The study involved sending a total of 12,032 Cologuard kits to non-compliant, moderate-risk patients aged 45 – 75 years old. Of these kits, 1738 (14.4%) were returned, with 198 (11.4%) testing positive for cancerous DNA and fecal occult blood. These individuals were then referred for a follow-up colonoscopy screening based on their results, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Cologuard testing kit in identifying at-risk patients.
Diversity and Compliance
Interestingly, the study found that patients who identified as White had a higher rate of Cologuard kit return compared to other racial groups. While 98% of patients who returned their kits preferred English language, only 1% preferred Spanish. This highlights the importance of considering cultural and language preferences when implementing screening programs.
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Key Takeaways for Clinicians
Despite falling short of their target goal of 17% improvement in screening compliance, the study underscored the value of Cologuard testing kits in increasing CRC screening rates. The findings suggest that offering at-home testing options could be a more convenient and preferable method for patients, potentially leading to earlier detection and treatment of colorectal cancer.
Overall, the Mayo Clinic study provides valuable insights for healthcare providers on the importance of encouraging patients to complete recommended screenings and exploring innovative approaches to improving compliance with CRC screening guidelines.
References:
- Strelow B, Dorff H, Katula W, Pokuta J. Reducing Patient Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening via At-home Provision of Multitarget Stool DNA Testing Kits. Paper presented at: American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) 2024 Conference & Expo. Houston, TX. May 18 – 22, 2024.
- Kunzmann K. Taha Qazi, MD: Best Screening for Colorectal Cancer. HCPLive. Published August 7, 2023. https://www.hcplive.com/view/taha-qazi-best-screening-colorectal-cancer
- Kunzmann K. Next-Generation Cologuard Improves Colorectal Cancer Detection, False Positive Rates in BLUE-C. HCPLive. Published October 23, 2023. https://www.hcplive.com/view/next-generation-cologuard-colorectal-cancer-detection-false-positive-rates-blue-c