Current trends and issues for colorectal cancer screening in Yamagata Prefecture

Abstract

The colorectal cancer screening rate in Yamagata prefecture is highest in Japan and the detailed examination rate in Yamagata is 68.3% (fiscal 2011). These are still too low to effectively reduce the mortality due to colorectal cancer. Several measures (offers of a free coupon ticket for colorectal cancer screening, distribution of the fecal occult blood test kits, and others by some municipalities) have been implemented to increase the screening rate for colorectal cancer in Yamagata. The screening rate increased gradually from 30% in fiscal 2004 to 35.6% in fiscal 2011. Various measures (distribution of a leaflet that recommends a detailed examination and others) have been implemented to increase the detailed examination rate for colorectal cancer in Yamagata. But the total detailed examination rate in Yamagata has not been obviously improved. The most effective method is timely recommendations to individuals by phone or in person. We report the current trends and issues for colorectal cancer screening in Yamagata prefecture.