Faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use in Portugal: Results from the National Health Survey 2014

Abstract

Objectives: Given the recent implementation of regional colorectal cancer screening programs in Portugal, understanding patterns of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use is essential to improve its control. We aimed to describe the use of both tests and to identify factors associated with its non- and under-use.

Methods: A sample of 7208 subjects aged 50-74 from the National Health Survey 2014 was examined. Previous experience of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy was classified as never or ever; ever-users, who had last undergone these tests more than 2 or 10 years before, respectively, were considered under-users. We computed age- and education-adjusted prevalence ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals for non- and under-use.

Results: Of the individuals in the screening age range, 36.9% had never undergone either test. The prevalence of non-use was 50.7% and 62.2% for faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy, and 27.4% and 6.0% of subjects under-used each test, respectively. The lowest prevalence of non- and under-use was found in the Norte region. Low socioeconomic status and unhealthy lifestyles were significantly associated with low testing; greater use was observed for those having more recent contact with healthcare services.

Conclusions: This study identifies patterns of colorectal cancer screening use, with regional disparities that have not yet been reduced by the implementation of organised screening programmes.

Keywords: Colonoscopy; colorectal neoplasms; early detection of cancer; faecal occult blood test; health surveys.