DOI: 10.36347/sasjs.2024.v10i07.025

Pages: 861-864

Background: The percentage of total colonoscopies is now super-passing the level of 95 % allowing the adenoma detection rate to be greater than the suggestive level of 25 % in men and 15 % in women. This review aims to provide the reader with the current knowledge concerning indications, usefulness, limitations and future perspectives of this probably most important screening technique for colorectal cancer available today. Colonoscopy has become the mainstay for screening and surveillance of CRC. The guidelines for screening and surveillance colonoscopy have been recently updated, particularly in light of a greater recognition of the importance of sessile serrated lesions in the development of cancer. Aim: To study colonoscopy as a screening tool for early detection of colorectal malignancy in patient presenting with lower abdominal complaints in a rural setup. Material and Methods: The study conducted at the Department of Surgery, Pravara Rural Hospital and Medical College, Loni, from February 2023 onwards was an observational, descriptive cross-sectional study involving a sample of 70 participants. Eligible participants, men and women aged 18 years and above, presented with lower abdominal complaints and had not undergone previous screening. Those willing to undergo colonoscopy were included, while individuals with a prior diagnosis of colorectal cancer or who had deceased before the study were excluded. Symptoms prompting colonoscopy included lower abdominal pain, cramping, rectal bleeding, tenesmus, diarrhea, constipation, perianal discharge, and melena. Results: In the dietary habits of the study participants, it was observed that only 5 cases adhered strictly to a vegetarian diet. Most patients had difficulty specifying their dietary constituents, but overall, fat and fiber intake was deemed moderately adequate for many individuals. Tobacco use was prevalent among the participants, with 27 out of 50 patients reporting its use in various forms. Among male ....