A new analysis of five minutes could be reduced by more than 40% the number of deaths from colorectal cancer, say scientists.
The test is performed with a flexible sigmoid scope to detect and remove any polyps in the colon.
Colorectal tumors are the second leading cause of cancer death in the world, after lung, and about half of the people who develop them die because they are often detected late.
The test, known Flexi-Scope, is performed with a flexible sigmoid scope (a thin tube with a camera) inserted into the rectum to examine the lower intestine and remove any abnormal growths (polyps) that can become cancerous if not question.
According to researchers at Imperial College London, the analysis, which takes place in people between 55 and 64 years, has succeeded in reducing the incidence of colorectal cancer in 35% and mortality by 43%. (more…)
