Background. While it has been shown that colorectal cancer (CRC) is more likely to be diagnosed in African-Americans at a younger age and at a later stage, some studies suggest that African-Americans are less likely to receive appropriate treatment for their diagnosed CRC. Several factors have been proposed as potential contributors to these disparities, and efforts to identify major determinants of CRC morbidity and outcome are continuing. The purpose of this pilot study is to gather preliminary information to be used in a larger subsequent study of the factors associated with disparities in incidence, treatment and survival of CRC in Alabama. The objectives are 1) to develop and test an instrument to collect demographic, socioeconomic and behavioral information from volunteer CRC patients 2) to conduct a medical chart review to compare self-reported and documented information. Method. The proposed project has two components: a) a retrospective chart review component b) a patient survey component. The goal is to recruit approximately 60 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer since 1993 and treated by a group of surgeon-oncologists at UAB Hospitals and Clinics. To date 39 patients have been recruited and interviews and medical records review are ongoing. Significance. Instruments developed and information collected will be used as foundation for a subsequent larger study of racial disparities in colorectal cancer outcome, in the state of Alabama.
Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to: Describe colorectal cancer epidemiology in the US and in Alabama; Describe disparities in colorectal cancer treatment and outcomes between blacks and whites and the different issues associated with these disparities; Identify at least two steps that can prevent and reduce these disparities.
Keywords: Cancer, Minority Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Alabama at Birmingham
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment