Factors affecting colorectal polyp and cancer detection rates in patients referred urgently for suspected bowel cancer

Abstract

Background/Aim: To investigate factors that affect colorectal polyp or colorectal cancer (CRC) detection amongst patients referred urgently to colorectal services for suspected bowel cancer. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective observational study at a UK colorectal centre (2017-2018). Logistic regression determined odds ratios for colorectal polyp or CRC according to age, gender, previous polyp or cancer, and the 6 NICE referral (NG12) categories. Results: A total of 605 patients were included in the study; median age 66 (IQR=54-76); 47.9% male. Nineteen (3.1%) patients had CRC and 64 (10.6%) had polyps. No individual variable increased the likelihood of CRC detection, but male patients had a higher likelihood of having either polyp or CRC (OR=1.72; 95%CI=1.07-2.80; p<0.05). Conclusion: At the point of an urgent referral to a colorectal clinic, the likelihood of CRC detection appears to be unaffected by age, gender, or any individual referral criterion. However, overall disease detection may be more likely amongst male patients.