Weighing the Environmental Impact of Colorectal Cancer Screening Methods

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives—but how do common methods like colonoscopy and non-invasive screening methods compare in their environmental effects? With the healthcare sector being responsible for over four percent of the global carbon footprint, researchers are looking into more environmentally friendly options that can still provide optimal outcomes for patients. Dr. Peter Buch sits down with Dr. Mark Fendrick to examine the carbon footprint of available colorectal cancer screening strategies and explore how a shift to noninvasive options could offer promising clinical and environmental impacts. Dr. Fendrick is a Professor of Internal Medicine and Health Management and Policy at the University of Michigan.