ABSTRACT
Colorectal cancer [CRC] is the third most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cause of death. Reduction in mortality rates in some countries worldwide are most likely ascribed to CRC screening and/or improved treatments. We reviewed the most relevant articles which discuss the cost-effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening procedures, in particular, the recent ones through the last eight years. The effectiveness of screening estimated by discounted life years gained [LYGs] compared to no screening, differed considerably between the studies. Despite these differences, all studies consistently emphasized that screening for CRC was cost-effective compared with no screening for each of the recognized screening strategies. Newer technologies for colorectal cancer screening, including computed tomographic colonography [CTC], faecal DNA test, and Pillcam Colon are less invasive and accurate, however, they are not cost-effective, as their cost was higher than all other established screening strategies. When compliance and adherence to such new techniques are increased more than the established strategies they would be more cost-effective particularly CTC
ABSTRACT
Benign prostatic hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms [LUTS] are common among older men, the incidence and prevalence are increasing rapidly, and they are associated with diminished health-related quality-of-life [QOL]. The aim was to describe the prevalence of LUTS in Saudi population and its relation to some other parameters. Saudi men over the age of 40 were invited to participate in the study; in Riyadh city from August 2012 through March 2013. All participants were assessed for the serum level of prostate-specific antigen [PSA] and digital rectal examination. Participants were given a linguistically validated Arabic version of the International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS]. Demographic and other medical comorbidities were assessed. Based on the IPSS, a subdivision of men into three symptoms classes has been proposed, resulting in groups with mild [1265, 58.3%], moderate [505, 27.3%], and severe symptoms [81, 4.4%] and the prevalence of moderate to severe was 31.7%. There was a weak, but significant correlation between the total IPSS and age, total prostate volume, and PSA. Severity of symptoms is increasing with increased age. Multiple regression analysis reported that prostate volume and all individual items of IPSS except straining were significant predictors of QOL and patient satisfaction, where frequency and incomplete emptying had the heaviest impact on patient's QOL. LUTS were common among men in Saudi population over 40, the prevalence increases with age and most of them were unpleased because of their urinary symptoms, poor QOL was mainly determined by individual symptoms; mainly frequency and incomplete emptying