Key Insights:
- 7.4% of patients repeated fecal tests instead of following the recommendation to proceed directly to a colonoscopy after a positive result, which delays critical follow-up care.
- Among those who repeated the home test, only 41% received a colonoscopy within one year, significantly delaying necessary medical intervention.
- Patients cited avoiding or delaying colonoscopy, ruling out other conditions, and seeking reassurance as reasons for repeating fecal tests instead of undergoing a colonoscopy immediately.
Conclusion:
The study highlights a significant gap in colorectal cancer screening compliance, with many patients opting to repeat fecal tests rather than proceeding to colonoscopy, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.