Preferences for potential innovations in non-invasive colorectal cancer screening: A labeled discrete choice experiment for a Dutch screening campaign

<div><p></p><p><b>Background.</b> The introduction of innovative non-invasive screening tests (e.g. tests based on stool and blood samples or both) may be a solution to increase colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake. However, preferences for these non-invasive screening tests have not been investigated in great detail yet. The purpose of this article therefore is to elicit individuals’ preferences for different non-invasive screening tests in a Dutch screening campaign context.</p><p><b>Material and methods</b>. We investigate preferences by means of a labeled discrete choice experiment. Data of 815 individuals, aged 55–75 years, are used in the analysis.</p><p><b>Results</b>. Multinomial logit model analysis showed that the combi-test is generally preferred over the blood-test and the (currently available) stool-test. Furthermore, besides the large effect of screening test type, there are significant differences in preference depending on participants’ socio-demographic background. Finally, the analysis showed a significant positive effect on screening test choice for the attributes sensitivity, risk reduction, and level of evidence and a non-significant effect for the attribute unnecessary follow-up test.</p><p><b>Conclusion</b>. Introducing new non-invasive screening tests that are based on a combination of stool and blood samples (or blood sample only) has the potential to increase CRC screening participation compared to the current standard stool-based test.</p>