Improving the efficacy and patient tolerability of colorectal cancer screening: Reducing the occurrence of preventable colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a common disease, but early detection can prevent a great deal of suffering. This thesis investigated two major obstacles: the reliability of the current stool test and the burdensome preparation for a colonoscopy.
In the first part, a breath test was evaluated that measures volatile compounds in exhaled air. The test was safe and simple for patients, but it was not yet accurate enough to replace the existing test.
The second part focused on the discomfort of bowel preparation for a colonoscopy. Research showed that smaller amounts of laxatives can clean the bowel just as effectively. A 1-liter bowel preparation proved to be equally effective but much more comfortable than a 2-liter preparation. Additionally, a new flushing system that cleans the bowel during the colonoscopy was tested and appeared promising and feasible.