|
|
|
|
|
Shelly L. Peterson, BA1, K. Allen Greiner, MD, MPH2, Kimberly K. Engelman, PhD3, Sandra Hall, PhD4, Annette L. Stanton, PhD5, and Edward F. Ellerbeck, MD, MPH3. (1) Kansas Cancer Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, Cancer Information Service, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66160-7312, (913)588-3721, speterso@kumc.edu, (2) School of Medicine, University of Kansas, Department of Family Medicine, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, KS 66160, (3) Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, KS 66160-7313, (4) Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas, Mail Stop 1008, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, (5) Department of Psychology, University of California - Los Angeles, Box 951563, 5625 FH/A2-125CHS, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563
Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer death in the US. Early detection through appropriate screening can reduce CRC mortality. Increased rates of late-stage cancer, unique barriers, and a paucity of information on rural CRC screening support programs to study CRC detection in these areas. This study assessed rural primary care patients’ CRC screening adherence and interest in CRC screening information.
Methods. A 15-item survey was completed by 87 patients 50 years of age or older in three rural primary care practices. Survey questions assessed CRC screening utilization rates, future screening intentions, barriers to screening, and desire for CRC screening information.
Results. Participant’s mean age was 67 years and 54% were female. The majority of participants (54%) were up-to-date on CRC screening (FOBT or sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy). However, 44% did not know when they would have their next FOBT and 71% did not know when they would have their next sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy screening. Approximately one-third were categorized as being either non-adherent or likely to become non-adherent to CRC screening guidelines. The top three reasons for not obtaining CRC screening were: 1) no CRC symptoms; 2) tests are unpleasant; and 3) physician did not recommend CRC screening. Most participants (87%) indicated an interest in receiving colon cancer education information.
Conclusions. Findings suggest that CRC screening rates could be improved via enhanced colorectal cancer education information delivery and patient/physician discussions of CRC screening in rural primary care practices.
Learning Objectives: "At the conclusion of the session, the participant(learner)in this session will be able to
Keywords: Cancer Screening, Rural Populations
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.