Enter Your Email Address to Receive a
Copy of MedicExhange Member Demograhpics

Dr McFarland stressed the importance of early studies that have paved the way to greater acceptance of the technology since its introduction 15 years ago. In spite of the impact that the widespread screening could have on colon cancer there remains a very low compliance with screening guidelines among adults over 50 in the USA.

Colon cancer is the third leading cancer diagnosis in the USA and the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related death. However, it has a 90% survival rate if detected and treated early. (according to American Cancer Society) However, less than 50% of US adults get regular screenings; if all adults over 50 were to be screened for colon cancer, the death rate would fall by 50% (25,000 lives per year).

There exist a number of barriers to broader implementation of CT Colonography:

Dr McFarland described reimbursement as the "800 pound gorilla" though some progress is being made. Her own programme of CT colonoscopy is providing a template for other hospitals to learn from and adopt.

A key next step is spreading the word about the importance of colon screenings through a more strategic PR programme. Developing multidisciplinary colorectal screening guidelines is well underway in conjunction with the American College of Radiology, the American Cancer Society and the US Multidisciplinary Task Force on Colorectal Cancer.