Pilot Study of Colon Cancer Screening Tests

Randomized Comparison of Virtual Colonoscopy, Optical Colonoscopy, and Fecal Occult Blood Testing for Colorectal Cancer Screening: a Pilot Study

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in North America. These deaths are preventable with proper screening. Fecal occult blood testing, virtual colonoscopy, and standard (optical) colonoscopy are all options for colon cancer screening, but it is not known which is the best at preventing death from colon cancer. A large study comparing these three tests is desperately needed. In this pilot study, the investigators want to find out what percentage of patients will show up for their screening test once enrolled. This will provide crucial information for the successful execution of the larger study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All individuals age 50 to 70 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to give informed consent
• History of colorectal cancer
• History of adenomatous polyp
• History of inflammatory bowel disease
• Prior participation in FOBT screening
• Prior refusal to participate in FOBT screening
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy within the previous 3 years
• Virtual colonoscopy within the previous 3 years
• Optical colonoscopy within the previous 3 years
• Severe of terminal illness that would preclude benefit from colon cancer screening