Evaluation of cancer screening coverage in adults with congenital heart disease

Abstract

Introduction

The risk of cancer in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) is 23% higher than in the general population.

Objective

The objective of our study was to assess cancer screening coverage in ACHD.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational, bicentric study of ACHD patients. Data were collected through a self-questionnaire proposed to all consecutive patients over 25 years from September 2022 to March 2023. Information on cervical, breast and colorectal cancer screening was collected and compared with screening data provided by Santé Publique France.

Results/Expected results

A total of 263 patients were included. The mean age was 44 years (range, 25–78), 122 (46%) patients were male, and 99 (38%) patients had a complex CHD. Eleven (4%) patients had a history of cancer. The screening participation rate for breast cancer was higher in ACHD patients (72%) compared to the general population from Ile de France region (39%, P < 0.001) and from the whole French population (51%, P = 0.002). For colorectal and cervical cancers, the screening participation rate were 36% and 65%, compared to 31% and 51% in Île de France region and 34% and 59% in the whole French population, respectively with no statistically significant difference (Figure 1).

Conclusion/Perspectives

Cancer screening coverage in ACHD patients was greater than non-congenital patients for breast cancer, but comparable for colorectal and cervical cancers. The screening participation rate remained however lower than European objectives for all cancers. Our data call for specific actions to better screen this aging population at high risk for cancer.