Cost‐utility analysis of colonoscopy or faecal immunochemical test for population‐based organised colorectal cancer screening

Background Organised programmes for colorectal cancer screening demand a high burden of medical and economic resources. The preferred methods are the faecal immunochemical test and primary colonoscopy. Objective The purpose of this study was to perform an economic analysis and comparison between these tests in Europe. Methods We used a Markov cost‐utility analysis from a societal perspective comparing biennial faecal immunochemical test or colonoscopy every 10 years screening versus non‐screening in Portugal. The population was screened, aged from 50–74 years, and efficacy was evaluated in quality‐adjusted life years. For the base‐case scenario, the faecal immunochemical test cost was €3 with 50% acceptance and colonoscopy cost was €397 with 38% acceptance. The threshold was set at €39,760/quality‐adjusted life years and the primary outcome was the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio. Results Screening by biennial faecal immunochemical test and primary colonoscopy every 10 years resulted in incremental utilities of 0.00151 quality‐adjusted life years and 0.00185 quality‐adjusted life years at additional costs of €4 and €191, respectively. The faecal immunochemical test was the most cost‐effective option providing an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of €2694/quality‐adjusted life years versus €103,633/quality‐adjusted life years for colonoscopy. Colonoscopy capacity would have to increase 1.3% for a faecal immunochemical test programme or 31% for colonoscopy. Conclusion Biennial faecal immunochemical test screening is better than colonoscopy as it is cost‐effective, allows more individuals to get screened, and provides a more rational use of the endoscopic capacity available.