Patterns of Colorectal Cancer in Texas Counties From 2000 to 2017

Residents living in Texas counties along the United States-Mexico border make up a unique demographic. These counties consist of a large proportion of Hispanic-Latinx people who experience a high rate of health uninsurance and underinsurance, low household income averages, and, as a whole, exhibiting relatively poor health outcomes compared to the US general population. Limited information exists regarding the effects of these characteristics on the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Using data from the Texas Department of State Health Service, we calculated that the overall age-adjusted incidence rate (AAIR) of CRC was lower and decreased at a slower rate over time in Texas border counties compared with nonborder counties in Texas.

The AAIR of CRC was lower and decreased at a slower rate over time in Texas border counties compared with nonborder counties in Texas. Conversely to other groups analyzed, the AAIR of CRC in individuals age 50-64 years in border counties increased.

These findings are likely a reflection of less utilization of cancer screening in border counties than in nonborder counties. The increase in AAIR of CRC among individuals age 50-64 years in border counties warrants further investigation.