healthcare across Europe that is dissociated from
feelings of fear and embarrassment.
Ultimately, the most effective and vital
component in the battle against colorectal cancer
is detecting its presence as early as possible,
as colorectal cancer symptoms only become
prevalent in the later stages of the disease.
A harmonisation of screening programmes and
increased participation rates needs to become
a key priority for governments across Europe.
Professor Dekker’s expertise derives partly from
the Netherlands, in which pilot-studies and
implementation studies were conducted to
investigate the most effective ways of organising
the programme and encouraging enrolment.
The Netherlands currently has the highest rate
of participation in colorectal cancer screening
programmes in Europe.
UEG is a professional non-profit organisation
encompassing all the leading European medical
specialist and national societies focussing on
digestive health. UEG aims to reduce the burden
of digestive diseases through improved disease
prevention, diagnosis, cure and raised awareness
of their importance.
About the author and UEG
Professor Evelien Dekker, colorectal cancer
expert, is a member of the European
Gastroenterology (UEG) Public Affairs Committee.
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