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Dear Editor, Recent publication of noninferiority of short-course radiation (SCRT) in rectal cancer has resulted in increased acceptance of this modality in the neoadjuvant setting in locally advanced rectal cancers. The lower disease-related treatment failure, fewer distant metastases and increased pathological response make it even more attractive. However, poor functional outcomes have been demonstrated in patients who had surgery after SCRT compared with those who had surgery after long-course radiotherapy (LCRT) [1].

Introduction There is limited data in the literature regarding the adequacy of generic FFP3 masks and their facial fit to ensure adequate protection. Mask fit-testing is therefore essential to protect healthcare workers. Method Using the Freedom of Information Act, 137 acute NHS trusts in the UK were approached on the 26/3/2020 by an independent researcher to provide data on the outcome of fit testing at each site. Results 85 Trusts responded to the FOI with 51 trusts providing pertinent data relevant to the FOI request. There was a total of 72 mask types used across 51 trusts. The commonest of which was the FFP3M1863 (used by 47/51 trusts, 92.16%). A positive correlation was found between staff members and number of mask types used (r = 0.75, P = <0.05). Overall fit-testing pass rates were provided by 32 trusts. The mean percentage pass rate was 80.74%. Gender specific failure rates were provided by seven trusts. 4386 males underwent fit-testing in comparison to 16305 females. Across all seven trusts 20.08% of men tested failed the fit-test while only 19.89% of women failed the fit-test. Conclusions Our results may be utilised in choosing respirators for fit testing programme in healthcare-workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims/Introduction Limited availability of endoscopy and CT colonography led to significant pressures on the colorectal cancer pathway during the COVID-19 pandemic. Risk stratification was necessary to determine the order in which patients on the tracking list could access diagnostics. Based on national guidance, patient symptoms and FIT test results, we used a locally developed risk stratification score (RSS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact the RSS had on patient diagnoses over a period of 8 months Methodology A prospectively maintained database was used to assess the outcomes. Based on their symptoms, patients on the colorectal 2ww pathway were invited to provide FIT samples if eligible. Diagnostics were prioritised using RSS. Results were analysed to assess how the cancer diagnostic yield during the pandemic compared to a similar period the year before. Results There were 1133 patients referred on the colorectal 2ww pathway between May - December 2020. 884 of these patients had FIT testing and 249 were not eligible. Of the 69 colorectal cancers diagnosed, 25 were in the FIT group and 44 in those not eligible. The RSS stratified to high or indeterminate risk in the non-FIT group was 31 and 23 in the FIT group. Compared to the previous year’s number of 59 patients diagnosed between May - December 2019, no statistical difference was found. Conclusion Our study shows that FIT testing and RSS led to an equivalent pick up rate of colorectal cancer and can be utilised in clinical settings with limited resources.