Colorectal Cancer Screening Compliance among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening prevalence is notably low among Asian and Pacific Islander populations.
• Disparities in CRC screening persist, necessitating investigation into contributing factors within specific ethnic groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine ethnic disparities in CRC screening compliance among adults aged 50-75 in Hawai'i.
• To identify key predictors associated with CRC screening compliance in Asian and Pacific Islander adults.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Hawai'i Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2011-2014.
• Logistic regression modeling to assess ethnic differences and predictors of CRC screening status.
• Dichotomization of CRC screening status for comparative analysis.

Main Results:

• Filipinos (OR 0.56), Chinese (OR 0.70), and Native Hawaiians (OR 0.75) demonstrated significantly lower CRC screening compliance compared to Whites.
• Higher education, income, employment, having a regular health provider, and routine checkups were significant predictors of CRC screening compliance.
• Findings confirmed lower screening compliance in three major Asian and Pacific Islander groups in Hawai'i.

Conclusions:

• Significant ethnic disparities in CRC screening exist among Asian and Pacific Islander groups in Hawai'i.
• Socioeconomic and healthcare access factors significantly influence CRC screening compliance.
• Culturally tailored educational and navigation interventions are recommended to reduce these health disparities.