The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #58951

Lori A Pollack, MD, MPH, Laura Seeff, MD, Marion Nadel, PhD, and Donald Blackman, PhD. NCCDPHP/Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy NE MS K-55, Atlanta, GA 30341-3717, (770) 488-3181, lop5@cdc.gov

Introduction: Colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., can be prevented or treated more successfully when diagnosed at the pre-cancerous stages. Home fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy are recommended to average-risk adults aged 50 and older for colorectal cancer screening. Methods: To estimate rates of colorectal cancer testing, we analyzed self-reported use of FOBT and sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study (BRFSS), a state and territory-based national telephone survey coordinated by the CDC. Limitations of BRFSS data are the exclusion of persons without telephones and low response rates (51.1%). Results: The proportion of all respondents 50 years or older who reported receiving colorectal cancer testing within the recommended screening intervals (FOBT within 12 months and/or sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy within ten years) was 53.1%. Use of FOBT and/or sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy was highest in Whites (54.3%), then African Americans (49.1%), followed by Native Americans (43.8%), Hispanics (40.1%), and Asians (39.9%). The following factors were inversely related to colorectal cancer test use: lower income, less education, lack of health insurance, and no usual source of healthcare. Rates also varied by state ranging from 29.7% in Puerto Rico to 65.2% in Washington DC. Conclusions: Colorectal cancer test use remains low and variations of rates by socio-demographic factors and state of residence highlight disparities. Overall, a need exists for increased colorectal cancer screening.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the current rates and trends of colorectal cancer test use in adults aged 50 and older.
• Identify factors associated with lower colorectal test use.

Keywords: Cancer Screening,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.