Author commentary on Hilliene J. van de Schootbrugge-Vandermeer et al.

Hilliene J. van de Schootbrugge-Vandermeer et al. Interval post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer following a negative colonoscopy in a fecal immunochemical test-based screening program

Minimizing interval post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer (iPCCRC) is an important goal in organized screening programs. This cross-sectional cohort analysis of the Dutch colorectal cancer screening program between 2014 and 2018 assessed iPCCRC rates in participants with a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and a subsequent negative colonoscopy. iPCCRC rates were low in the first years following colonoscopy, but rates were similar to the FIT interval cancer risk at which FIT-negative individuals are re-invited for screening after approximately 2.5 years of follow-up. This raises questions about colonoscopy quality and screening intervals after a negative colonoscopy.

Publication History

Article published online:
28 November 2023