Colorectal Cancer Screening in Cystic Fibrosis: A Missed Opportunity in Medical Education

Background People with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at higher risk for early-onset, aggressive colorectal cancer (CRC). The CF Foundation recommends initiating colonoscopy screening at age 40. However, awareness of these guidelines among Internal Medicine (IM) physicians remains unclear. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess knowledge of CRC screening guidelines in people with CF among medicine faculty, trainees, and fellows in Gastroenterology (GI) and Pulmonary and Critical Care (PCC) at a large academic center. The anonymous survey included three questions: level of training, recommended screening age, and preferred screening modality. Results Among 40 respondents, only 47.5% correctly identified age 40 as the recommended screening initiation age, and 45% answered both questions correctly. Medical students demonstrated the highest knowledge. None of the medicine attendings answered both correctly. Conclusion This highlights substantial gaps in knowledge of CF-specific CRC screening guidelines among medicine trainees and faculty, with lower awareness observed among senior residents and attending physicians.