The Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer - Experiences from the Community of Kungsbacka, Sweden

Abstract

In the community of Kungsbacka, Sweden, with about 48,000 inhabitants, all subjects with colorectal cancer were studied during a three-year period. The incidence was 30 per 100,000 inhabitants per year. In all there were 42 cases. Blood in the stools, anaemia, tiredness, and dizziness were common initial signs and symptoms. Diarrhoea and constipation were also rather frequent. Positive test for faecal occult blood was observed in 40%, negative tests in 12% while in 48% no such test had been performed. The majority of the subjects (64%) first visited a general practitioner (GP). Mean doctor's delay was five months. More than half the cancers were located in the rectal or sigmoid area. Subjects in whom no metastases were observed had a favourable prognosis, compared with those with distant metastases. Since most patients with colorectal cancer first visit a GP for their symptoms, the GP has an important role in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Key Words:

• colorectal cancer
• occurrence
• symptoms
• diagnosis
• prognosis
• community medicine