Screening for colorectal cancer: Using data to set prevention priorities

Graham A. Colditz, Lucy D.Agostino McGowan, Aimee S. James, Kari Bohlke, Melody S. Goodman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Introduction: Adherence to colorectal cancer screening recommendations is known to vary by state, but less information is available about within-state variability. In the current study, we assess county-level screening rates for Missouri, with the goal of better targeting public health efforts to increase screening. Methods: Prevalence of colorectal cancer screening among Missouri adults between the ages of 50 and 74 was obtained from 2008 and 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. We used multilevel logistic regression to generate county-specific estimates. After excluding 77 counties with fewer than 30 respondents, information was available about 3,739 individuals in 37 counties, representing 78.5 % of the state population. Results: Across counties, the prevalence of being up-to-date with recommended colorectal cancer screening ranged from 25 to 70 %. Conclusion: State-level information about colorectal cancer screening masks substantial within-state variability. Assessing and monitoring county-level disparities in screening can guide public health efforts to increase screening and reduce colorectal cancer mortality. More complete population survey data will make such analysis possible.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)93-98
Number of pages6
JournalCancer Causes and Control
Volume25
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2014

Keywords

  • Colorectal cancer
  • Community health planning
  • Healthcare disparities
  • Missouri
  • Primary prevention
  • Screening

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

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