Evidence shows that there are substantial disparities on rates of colorectal cancer screenings between whites and non-whites. A group of researchers, led by Thomas Semrad, MD, assessed whether geographic factors also contributed to the racial/ethnic disparities.
The researchers collected Medicare claims data within 11 SEER regions on patients who were up-to-date on sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy within the past five years or fecal occult blood testing within the last year. The results include the following:
• Black and white disparities were greatest in Atlanta, rural Georgia and San Jose, Calif.
• Black and white disparities were not significant in Connecticut, Seattle or Iowa.
• Asian/Pacific Islanders and whites had significant disparities in Michigan, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Jose, Calif.
• Asian/Pacific Islanders were more likely to be up-to-date on colorectal cancer screening than whites in Hawaii.
Read the abstract about geographic and racial/ethnic disparities in colorectal cancer screening.
Read other coverage about colorectal cancer screening:
– Study: More Colonoscopy Screening Options Confuse Patients
– IU Gastroenterologist Says Colonoscopy Can Be Viable Tool for CRC Prevention
– New Test Measuring DNA Methylation Levels Could Help CRC
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
