Background: A single sigmoidoscopy examination at around age 60 years has been
proposed as a cost-effective strategy to prevent colorectal cancer. A multicenter randomized
controlled trial, the SCORE trial, is in progress in Italy to estimate the impact of this strategy
on colorectal cancer incidence and mortality and the duration of the protective effect. We
present the baseline screening outcomes. Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to a
random sample of 236 568 people aged 55–64 years to assess their eligibility for and …

We have just finished a colorectal screening trial in Norway (1) and therefore read the
baseline findings from the Italian large-scale flexible sigmoidoscopy screening study (the
SCORE study)(2) with great interest. However, we wish to comment on some aspects of this
study. Study population. The initial approach of asking for interest in participation was done
in three different ways, either by direct draw from the population register or by asking all
general practitioners or a random sample of practitioners in one region to provide candidate …