Analysis of colorectal cancer hospitalized morbidity and estimates of their financial implications at national level, 2016-2018

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is third most frequently diagnosed cancer as new cases worldwide. There is no national screening program for colorectal cancer in Romania, although estimated CRC incidence and mortality here are among the highest in Europe.

Given the importance, severity, frequency and burden of this disease, several measures are to be considered in Romania: introducing the National CRC Patient Registry; periodical review and update of the national clinical guidelines related to colon, rectum and colorectal cancer adopted in our country by MoH orders, considering the relevant recommendations based on scientific evidences, as made at European and international level by the experts; introducing, implementing and financing a national program for CRC screening and surveillance, as this recommendation was communicated to Romania since 2010; ensure the access of target population to timely screening program, organized by specialists; involving family doctors in early diagnosing and surveillance of CRC cases; study the main CRC determinants in Romanian population today; IEC campaigns (informationeducation-communication) to fight against CRC, aiming to raise awareness in general population regarding the high and increasing frequency of this deadly disease, its major risk factors and especially the preventive actions needed, as proved to be effective.