Recorded presentation

Anna Pittman Schenck, PhD, Health Assessment Division, Medical Review of North Carolina, 100 Regency Forest Drive, Suite 200, Cary, NC 27511, 919 380-9860, aschenck@ncqio.sdps.org, Carrie Klabunde, PhD, Applied Research Program, National Cancer Institute, EPN 4005; 6130 Executive Boulevard, Bethesda, MD 20892, and William Davis, PhD, Surveillance Research Program, National Cancer Institute, 6116 Executive Boulevard, Room 5047, Bethesda, MD 20893.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is recommended beginning at age 50. Yet, CRC testing among Medicare beneficiaries is low, with substantial variations by race. We conducted a telephone survey of Medicare consumers in North and South Carolina to assess differences in knowledge, awareness and use of CRC tests between African Americans and whites. Differences were assessed using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the independent importance of predictors of CRC test use in both races. A total of 2000 Medicare consumers were interviewed (response rate = 68%). Whites were twice as likely as African Americans to have had any of the CRC tests according to guidelines (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.7 - 2.6). Whites were significantly more likely to have correct knowledge of risk factors for CRC, have heard of CRC tests, believe CRC is treatable, be concerned about CRC, and be aware of Medicare coverage for CRC tests. In multivariate models of having a CRC test according guidelines, significant predictors for both races were: having a check up in the last 12 months, being at higher risk for CRC, and worrying about CRC. Marital status and education were important predictors in models for whites but not for African Americans. Beliefs about treatment and having a regular source for medical care were important predictors for African Americans but not whites. These results can be used to better understand and target Medicare consumers of both races for education on CRC screening.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify racial differences in knowledge, awareness and use of colorectal cancer tests among Medicare beneficiaries
• Describe similarities and differences in predictors of colorectal cancer testing for African Americans and whites
• Describe how screening might be increased with targeted educational approaches

Keywords: Medicare, 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.

Recorded presentation