Early this century, developed countries launched screening programmes for the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC). New Zealand has among the highest CRC rates in the world, so this was obviously important. The Southern DHB serves a population with among the highest CRC rates in New Zealand. Increasing complaints from GPs and specialists and patients throughout the region were that symptomatic patients were not being investigated appropriately. An excellent screening programme for colorectal cancer is every bit as important as a quality diagnostic colonoscopy programme for symptomatic patients.

Source: Otago Daily Times June 13, 2021 16:30 UTC