G-2642

Comparison of colorectal cancer staging between self-referral patients in screening program and other patients in Isfahan province (2021-2022)

 Zeinab Khakpour Nourmohammadi ¹ ℗, Kimia Pejman Birjandi ¹ ©, Mohammad Mohseni ²   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, including in Iran. Early detection through screening programs significantly reduces mortality and improves prognosis. While some individuals voluntarily participate in screening, others are diagnosed only after symptoms onset and subsequent medical referral. This study aimed to compare CRC staging between self-referral patients and those diagnosed through symptomatic presentation in Isfahan province during 2021-2022. Methods and Materials: This analytical cross-sectional study employed a quantitative approach to compare two groups of CRC patients: (1) self-referred individuals participating in screening programs and (2) patients diagnosed through other routes (e.g., symptomatic presentation).A census sampling method was used, including all eligible patients with complete medical records available at the Isfahan Provincial Health Deputy. Data variables included cancer stage (based on TNM classification), diagnostic route (self-referred screening vs. symptomatic diagnosis), age, gender, education level, and family history of CRC. Data were extracted from pathology reports, the national integrated health system (SIB), and the Iranian National Cancer Registry. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with significance set at p-values 0.05. Results: Among 796 patients were examined, 318 (40%) were had self-referred for screening. The mean age in the self-referred group was significantly lower than of the symptomatic group (53.4 vs. 60.7 years, p0.01). Early-stage diagnosis (stages I and II) was significantly more prevalent in the self-referred group (60%) compared to the symptomatic group (30%, p 0.001). Overall, a statistically significant difference in disease stage was observed between the two groups, indicating earlier detection in self-referred patients. Conclusion and Discussion: Screening program facilitate early CRC diagnosis, improving treatment efficacy, and reducing healthcare costs associated with advanced-stages management. By enhancing public awareness and reducing the need for invasive treatments, this approach improves patients' quality of life and reduces the healthcare system's burden. As a preventive strategy, CRC screening plays a key role in public health and policymaker awareness, and can effectively reduce CRC mortality rates.

Keywords: Colorectal Cancer, Screening, Staging