Early awareness interventions for cancer: colorectal cancer

<p dir="ltr">Research on interventions to increase early detection of CRC (through patient awareness campaigns to increase self-presentation or to increase screening attendance) show generally positive results at all stages of the logic model. However, there is only a small amount of evidence towards the end of the logic model, and the available evidence throughout is not of high quality due to study design (mostly before-after studies), and a potentially high risk of bias. It was not possible to draw comparative conclusions between interventions or which components of interventions conferred the positive effects. There is a lack of evidence to inform the link between increased self-presentation and screening attendance to earlier detection of CRC, though it should be noted that all evidence relating to this came from the US.</p><p dir="ltr">The data available from the ‘signs and symptoms’ pilot campaign which was used in the cost-effectiveness modelling was associated with limitations and considerable uncertainty. A priority for future research is to co-ordinate and maximise the evaluation and dissemination of efforts that have already been made to increase CRC awareness. For example, clear reporting of completeness of data, and comparison with non-intervention regions are important. To establish the potential effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of such a campaign, information on ‘duration of effect of campaign’, ‘effect of campaign on CRC incidence’ and ‘effect of campaign by age’ are of importance.</p>