Screening program for early detection of colorectal cancer will continue in 2023

According to the order of the Minister of Health a pilot screening program for early detection of colorectal cancer was carried out in two medical institutions (Yerevan and Gyumri) from July to December, 2022, in the 50-75 age group of the Armenian population at random.

The results are summarized as follows:

1) St. Gregory the Illuminator Medical Center in Yerevan

• 1727 studies,
• 93 people had positive results of immunochemical tests,
• 67 citizens were sent for colonoscopy within the framework of state order, various pathologies were detected, free consultation with narrow specialists was organized as needed.

2) Gyumri Berlin Polyclinic

• 368 tests,
• 4 people had positive results of immunochemical tests,
• 2 citizens were sent for colonoscopy within the framework of state order, free consultation with narrow specialists was organized as needed.

The project is designed until 2026.

Colorectal cancer (colon, rectum and sigmoid colon) is one of the most frequent malignant neoplasms among adults, especially at the late stage of disease.

In Armenia the highest incidence rate is registered in the age group of 60 and older (83.6% of cases).