Colorectal cancer screening importance highlighted in Portugal

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death globally. In Portugal, it is the most common cancer type for both sexes, with over 10,000 new cases annually and an average of 11 deaths per day.

While primarily affecting individuals over 50, there has been a rising incidence among younger adults. Early detection significantly improves outcomes; the five-year survival rate is approximately 90% when detected early, but drops to about 50% if diagnosed at a later stage.

Screening programs, such as fecal occult blood tests and colonoscopies, are essential for reducing mortality by detecting cancers in early stages and removing precursor lesions. In Portugal, the population-based screening program targets individuals aged 50 to 74 using immunochemical fecal occult blood tests. A positive result indicates the need for a follow-up colonoscopy, which remains the gold standard for both diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.