Norwegian version of this page

KoloPrev - Targeting lifestyle to improve colorectal cancer screening

Norway has implemented a national colorectal cancer-screening program. We aim to enhance the screening program by targeting lifestyle.

Colourfull running shoes, fruits and vegetables on a table

Illustration: Colourbox

About the project

Norway has one of the highest colorectal cancer incidence rates worldwide. While screenings offer a critical opportunity for early detection, they also provide a platform to encourage cancer-preventive behaviors among participants. Although diet and lifestyle are recognized risk factors, the impact of lifestyle improvements alongside regular screenings remains uncertain.

To integrate preventive strategies effectively, we need suitable assessment tools for diet and lifestyle, and implement intervention measures which are both acceptable, effective and feasible with-in the screening context. Additionally, considering the resource-intensive nature of colonoscopy screening, exploring the possibility of extending the interval between screenings for low-risk individuals could optimize resources and enhance efficiency.

Objectives

To examine the need and feasibility to promote lifestyle changes at colorectal cancer screening.

We will achieve this by

Examine in an observational Norwegian study the association between lifestyle changes and risk of lifestyle-related cancers in individuals screened for colorectal cancer.
Test in a randomized trial if a personalized, digital diet and lifestyle intervention linked to a screening program leads to change in lifestyle, and whether its efficacy depends on the intensity of the intervention.
In three large U.S. cohorts, examine the possibility to extend endoscopy screening interval in those with a low risk, and the effect of lifestyle changes on colorectal cancer risk.