06 May Surgeon Pedro Botelho: ‘If 80% of the population took part [in colorectal cancer screening], it would be possible to reduce new cases by 22% by 2030’

in www.movsaude.pt – 21 April, 2026

Colorectal cancer is the most common type of cancer in Portugal — around 10,500 new cases per year in 2022, one of the highest rates in the European Union, according to Globocan. The data is clear: when detected early (stage I), 89% of patients survive for 5 years or more; when diagnosed late (stage IV), that figure drops to just 16%.¹

The DGS has been strengthening the screening programme, recommending the faecal occult blood test, with a referral for colonoscopy where indicated. However, uptake rates are low (29% for FOBT and 60% for colonoscopy) — which limits its impact. ² If 80% of the population took part, it would be possible to reduce new cases by 22% by 2030.³ Furthermore, treating the disease at an early stage costs less than half of what it does at an advanced stage — around €13,000 versus €28,000 per patient.⁴

For the SNS (National Health Service), investing in prevention is not just a clinical decision — it is a strategic choice for sustainability. Studies based on national data show that screening every two years is the most cost-effective option.⁵

It is therefore essential to reinforce an integrated approach: clear information campaigns, greater involvement of primary care, the use of digital media, and local access via pharmacies and other community facilities. At the same time, it is essential to ensure rapid responses following a positive test result, reducing waiting times for colonoscopies. Only in this way will it be possible to turn evidence into real results — saving lives, reducing costs and making the NHS more efficient and equitable.

Selected references

1 CDC. Health and Economic Benefits of CRC Interventions. 2024.

2 Monteiro H et al. Acta Med Port. 2022;35(3):164–169.

3 Pokharel R et al. Appl Health Econ Health Policy. 2023;21:701–717.

4 PMC12570495. Early vs Late-Stage Cancer Diagnosis Costs. 2025.

5 PMC8443950. Cost-Utility Analysis of CRC Screening in Portugal. 2021.

This article was originally published in Revista Business Portugal