Population screening for colorectal cancer in Spain - A public health success with remaining challenges

Rev Esp Enferm Dig. 2024 Nov;116(11):585-589. doi: 10.17235/reed.2024.10774/2024.

Abstract

The development of organized colorectal cancer screening programs in developed countries has led to a reduction in the incidence and mortality of this cancer. The implementation of the national screening program in Spain represents a major achievement in public health, aligning us with other European countries, but it still faces ongoing challenges. One of the main issues is the low participation rate of the eligible population, averaging 45%, with significant variation between autonomous communities. This requires allocating specific resources to overcome barriers that hinder participation. Another key aspect to improving the screening program is extending the screening age up to 74 years, in line with the recommendations of the European Union, as many member states are already doing.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Early Detection of Cancer*
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Public Health*
  • Spain / epidemiology