Correlation of Endoscopy Frequency with Survival for Individuals Diagnosed with Local and Regional Colorectal Cancer

PI: Scott Ramsey MD PhD

This NCI-funded study aims to evaluate the relationship between regular use of lower intestinal tract endoscopy or barium enema and survival for persons who have been diagnosed with local or regional colorectal cancer.

The effectiveness of colonoscopy in reducing cancer recurrence and prolonging life for those with colorectal cancer has never been studied in clinical trials. The benefit of colonoscopic surveillance (in terms of expected years of life gained) is a critical input to the model of genetic screening for persons with risks for hereditary colorectal cancer.