Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
06:28
E-Patient Counseling Trial (E-PACO): Computer Based Education versus Nurse Counseling for Patients to Prepare for Colonoscopy
Published on: August 1, 2019
Colorectal cancer-screening tests and associated health behaviors
J A Shapiro1, L C Seeff, M R Nadel
1Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30341-3717, USA.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|July 18, 2001
Summary
Colorectal cancer screening rates using fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy remain low across all demographic groups. Increased awareness of screening importance is crucial for reducing cancer mortality.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Preventive Medicine
- Cancer Screening
Background:
- Colorectal cancer screening significantly reduces mortality.
- Understanding current screening rates and disparities is essential for public health initiatives.
- Fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy are key screening methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the rates of fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy use in the U.S. population.
- To identify demographic factors and health behaviors associated with screening test utilization.
- To assess the overall uptake of colorectal cancer screening methods.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national survey data from the 1997 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).
- Inclusion of 52,754 respondents aged 50 years and older.
- Questionnaires assessed the use of FOBT and sigmoidoscopy.
Main Results:
- Reported screening rates were 19.8% for FOBT (past year) and 30.5% for sigmoidoscopy (past 5 years).
- Individuals with other screening tests (mammography, Pap smear, cholesterol check) showed higher colorectal cancer screening rates.
- Screening rates varied by other health behaviors and demographic factors, but remained low overall.
Conclusions:
- Despite higher rates among those with healthy behaviors, colorectal cancer screening utilization remains low across all subgroups.
- There is a critical need to enhance public awareness regarding the importance of colorectal cancer screening.
- Low screening rates highlight a gap in preventive care for a major cancer.
Related Concept Videos
02:59Cancer Prevention
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
01:30Preventive Healthcare Services
Preventive healthcare services keep people healthy via frequent check-ups, screening, and counseling. They primarily aid in disease prevention rather than treating an acute or chronic illness. Preventive treatment also keeps individuals productive and energetic, allowing them to work well into their retirement years. Examples of preventive care services include:
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
01:30Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy
Various diagnostic tests are employed in the diagnostic process for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), particularly to differentiate between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the colonic...
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the colonic...
01:30Serum Laboratory Studies, Stool Test, Breath Test
Gastrointestinal (GI) diagnostic studies are pivotal in confirming, ruling out, diagnosing, or staging various diseases, including cancers. Following diagnosis, allocating time for discussions with the patient and providing informational resources is crucial. Diagnostic assessments of the GI tract often occur in outpatient settings like endoscopy suites or GI labs. Preparation for these tests may include dietary restrictions, fasting, liquid bowel preparations, laxatives, enemas, and the...
01:25Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections: