Abstract
Background/Aims: Optimal timing of colorectal cancer screening in average-risk population plays a key role, especially in countries where there is a high incidence of sporadic colorectal cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the data obtained from colonoscopies at our tertiary gastroenterology centre over a 3-year period.
Methodology: A total of 7,765 colonoscopies were performed from January 2008 to December 2010. Out of this whole series, 2,353 consecutive unique first total colonoscopies were accomplished.
Among them, 741 subjects were under 50 years of age. Adenomas with low-grade dysplasia with a size of >10mm, adenomas with high-grade dysplasia and/or villous component at histology were assessed as advanced colorectal neoplasia.
Results: Advanced colorectal neoplasia was found in 2.2% patients (16/741) aged 50 and carcinoma in 3.6% patients >50 (58/1612). The incidence of advanced colorectal neoplasia showed a statistically significant difference between patients aged 50.
Conclusions: Incidence of advanced colorectal neoplasia is low in the average- risk Czech population under 50 years of age. Our study supports correctness of the contemporary recommendation for a colorectal cancer screening programme in the Czech Republic.