Swedish long-term data show at-home screening sharply reduces colorectal cancer deaths
A study of over 376,000 people in Sweden found that those who participated in colorectal cancer screening had a 43% lower risk of dying from the disease. The research tracked participants for up to 14 years. The findings suggest that completing a simple at-home stool test can significantly improve survival.
The Stockholm-Gotland screening program began in 2008, offering home stool tests to residents aged 60-74 every two years. The test detects invisible traces of blood, with positive results leading to colonoscopy follow-up. Researchers tracked 376,511 participants for up to 14 years, recording 1,668 colorectal cancer deaths.
After statistical adjustments, invitation alone was linked to a 26% lower death risk, while actual participation showed a 43% reduction. About one-third of invited individuals did not submit samples, despite the test being free and simple to complete.