Adherence to fecal immunochemical test screening among adults at average risk for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined adherence to screening for fecal immunochemical test (FIT).

Methods: Adults (≥ 50-75) with a FIT between 1/1/2014 and 6/30/2019 in MarketScan administrative claims were selected (index = earliest FIT). Patients were followed for 10 years pre- and 3 years post-index. Patients at increased risk for CRC or with prior screening were excluded. Year over year adherence was measured post-index.

Results: Of 10,253 patients, the proportion adherent to repeat testing at year 2 was 23.4% and 10.6% at year 3. Of 76.6% not adherent in year 2, 5.4% were adherent in year 3.

Conclusion: Results suggest adherence to FIT tests is poor, minimizing potential benefits. Future studies are needed to consider alternative test options and whether more choice will improve long-term adherence.

Keywords: Colorectal neoplasms; Guideline adherence; Mass screening.