Development of a National Colorectal Cancer Screening Research Agenda: An Initiative of the Canadian Screening for Colorectal Cancer Research Network (CanSCCRN)

Abstract

The Canadian Screening for Colorectal Cancer Research Network (CanSCCRN) recently set out to develop a national CRC screening research agenda and identify priority research areas. The specific objectives were to (1) identify evidence gaps relevant to CRC screening and the barriers and facilitators to evidence generation and uptake by CRC screening programs, (2) establish high-priority collaborative research ideas to inform best CRC screening practices, and (3) identify one to two research topics for grant development and submission within 12 to 18 months. Three focus groups were conducted with network members and relevant parties (n = 15) to identify evidence gaps, barriers, and facilitators to evidence generation and uptake. Three workshops were subsequently held to discuss focus group findings and develop an action plan for research. An electronic survey was used to prioritize the evidence gaps to be addressed. Overall, five categories of barriers and six categories of facilitators to evidence uptake and generation were identified, as well as 23 evidence gaps to be addressed. Screening participation, post-polypectomy surveillance, and screening age range were identified as research priority research areas. Adequate resourcing and infrastructure, as well as partnerships with knowledge end users, are integral to addressing these research areas and advancing CRC screening programs in Canada and beyond.