Colonoscopy surveillance in asymptomatic subjects with increased risk for colorectal cancer: clinical evaluation and cost analysis of an Italian experience.

The aim of this study was three-fold: (a) to present a surveillance plan for colorectal cancer prevention with colonoscopy, focused on first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients in the province of Ferrara (Italy); (b) to analyse the cost of colonoscopy at the University Hospital of Ferrara; and (c) to analyse the cost of the surveillance plan in our province. In January 2000, in the province of Ferrara, following a campaign of public sensitization, a plan of surveillance with colonoscopy was started, addressing the population at an increased risk for colorectal cancer (i.e.

[Surveillance and cost-effectiveness of colonoscopy in asymptomatic increased risk subjects of colorectal cancer: Ferrara experience].

Colorectal cancer represents the second leading cause of cancer deaths in western countries with elevated costs for health service. It's very important to develop screening and surveillance programs for cancer prevention with "cost-effective" means. We present a surveillance program with colonoscopy focused on first degree relatives of CRC patients.