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We are three aspiring healthcare professionals currently studying at The Ohio State University.
As colon cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, we are aware of the importance of early screening and detection. After reading your article, a few things stood out to us. First, the number of rejected samples, due to collection errors, was higher than we expected. And, as such, we are curious as to the underlying reasons for this occurrence. Given that previous research has documented difficulty of internet-based colonoscopy preparation information,1 we wonder if fecal immunochemical test (FIT) instructions provided in your study had been assessed for readability and/or created in accordance with Plain Writing Act—2010 guidelines?2 Further, did participants have an opportunity to ask questions about FIT instructions? Second, as study participants were also taking laxatives, we are curious as to whether you assessed correct dosing and administration for laxatives as well. Third, the study population consisted predominantly of highly educated adults (72% had at least a college degree). As such, we wonder what the results would look like if the study sample more accurately represented the American population regarding educational attainment. Thank you for considering our questions.
References
1. MacLean SA, Basch CH, Clark A, Basch CE. Readability of information on colonoscopy preparation on the internet. Health Promot Perspect. 2018;8(2):167-170. 10.15171/hpp.2018.22
2. Plain writing act of 2010. https://www.plainlanguage.gov/law/ Accessed Feb 21, 2023.