Study: Questionnaire Plus Computer Can Predict Colorectal Cancer

British researchers report that results of a simple patient questionnaire that depends on history alone can be fed into a computer program that can accurately predict whether the patient has symptomatic colorectal cancer.

The researchers reported that in a study of 2,268 patients with distal colonic symptoms referred by general practitioners, they had the patients complete a consultation questionnaire linked to a computerised record.

A weighted numerical score was derived for each patient from weighting of primary symptoms and symptom complexes and was calculated automatically when the questionnaire data were entered into the computer program.

The researchers reported in The Lancet that the average weighted numerical score for the 95 patients in the group found to have colorectal cancer was "significantly higher" than the average score of the non-cancer patients.

"The patient consultation questionnaire depends on history alone and is easily reproducible," the researchers said. "In conjunction with the weighted numerical score, which removes operator bias, it can be used as an accurate system for prediction of symptomatic colorectal cancer."

Other sources: The Lancet