TITLE:
Sample preference for colorectal cancer screening tests: Blood or stool?
AUTHORS:
Joanne M. Osborne, Carlene Wilson, Vivienne Moore, Tess Gregory, Ingrid Flight, Graeme P. Young
KEYWORDS:
Colon Cancer Screening; Faecal Occult Blood Test; Sample Preference; Stool Sampling; Blood Sampling; Participation
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Preventive Medicine,
Vol.2 No.3,
August
7,
2012
ABSTRACT: Objective: Despite the high prevalence of CRC and the proven benefits of faecal sampling tests, participation rates in CRC screening are suboptimal. Literature has identified a number of barriers to participation, including faecal aversion. Emerging test technologies suggest blood-based molecular markers might provide an alternative, more acceptable option, for CRC screening tests. We aim to determine preference for blood compared to faeces as the sample for the screening test. Methods: A survey was mailed to 956 South Australians aged 50 to 74 years. Data were collected on sample preference, demographic variables, and ratings of screening test convenience and comfort. Results: The survey yielded a 43% response rate. The majority of participants preferred to provide a blood sample (78% v 22%, p