Every two years, Burgundians-Francs-Comtois aged 50 to 74 are invited to undergo a screening test for colorectal cancer. On the occasion of Mars Bleu, a national campaign to raise awareness of screening for this cancer, the Regional Cancer Screening Coordination Center reminds us of the importance of carrying out this test.
Detected early, colorectal cancer is more easily treated
In 2018, there are an estimated 43,000 (23,000 men and 20,000 women) new cases and 17,000 deaths. It’s the 3th most common cancer and the 2th deadliest cancer in France, after lung cancer. It presents a slow and silent evolution which can be a favorable factor for early detection. Colorectal cancer most often comes from the evolution of a benign lesion, which is not perceived by the patient, but which can bleed very discreetly, sometimes for years. At this stage, the screening test can detect blood present microscopically in the stool and reveals the existence of the lesion at a time in its development when the treatments allow eradication without sequelae or relapse. The Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Regional Cancer Screening Coordination Center recalls that this test makes it possible to detect colorectal cancer early, which increases the chances of recovery and reduces the need for heavy medical treatment.
Participation which remains very low in France
However, national participation in colorectal cancer screening is still too low. There are still many barriers to the practice of the test: confusion with colonoscopy, taboo on handling stools, discomfort related to the intimate body part concerned and finally, fear of the announcement of a positive diagnosis. The Burgundy-Franche-Comté Regional Cancer Screening Coordination Center is the official structure for the deployment of screening in our region. Its action has already made it possible to treat many cancers diagnosed early, thanks to an immunological test allowing the detection of precancerous lesions and offering better chances of recovery.
Vincent Dancourt, doctor in charge of the regional cancer screening coordination center in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté: