Screening for Colorectal Cancer at the Worksite

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Oncology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the US.
• Low CRC screening rates necessitate innovative intervention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of employer-based colorectal cancer screening initiatives.
• To increase CRC screening participation among university employees and dependents.

Main Methods:

• Collaboration between the Alabama Department of Public Health, CDC, UAH, and USA.
• Distribution and return tracking of fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) to eligible participants.
• Participant education, tracking, and monitoring were implemented.

Main Results:

• Over 70% FIT return rates were achieved at both university sites.
• 21 positive FITs were identified at UAH, and 25 at USA.
• FIT screening was successfully implemented in an employer-based setting.

Conclusions:

• Employer-based screening initiatives are a systematic and replicable method for enhancing CRC screening.
• These programs can effectively identify individuals needing further diagnostic evaluation for CRC.
• Public health-university partnerships can improve cancer screening accessibility.