South Dakota's Battle With Colorectal Cancer: Mortality Trends From 1999 to 2020 Using CDC WONDER Database

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the third leading cause of death in the United States despite advancements in screening, early detection, and treatment. This study aims to outline the mortality trends among individuals residing in South Dakota from 1999-2020, categorized by various demographic factors to highlight high-risk populations.

Data from the CDC WONDER database was analyzed, covering the years 1999-2020. CRCrelated deaths were identified using ICD-10 codes C18.0-C18.9. The age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 populations were calculated. Joinpoint regression was used to assess mortality trends and calculate the annual percentage change (APC), with stratification by year, sex, and race/ethnicity.

The study extracted 3,686 CRC-related deaths in South Dakota between 1999 and 2020, with an average AAMR of 16.8 (AAPC: -2.85). The AAMR declined from 22.4 in 1999 to 12.1 in 2020 (APC: -2.85). Men had consistently higher AAMRs than women, decreasing from 26.3 in 1999 to 14.7 in 2020 (APC: -3.03), while women's AAMR declined from 19.2 to 10.5 (APC: -2.77). Only non-Hispanic Whites exhibited a significant decline among racial groups, from 22.9 in 1999 to 10.9 in 2020 (APC: -3.03); data for other races were suppressed or unavailable. AAMRs varied geographically, with the highest in noncore nonmetropolitan counties (18.9), followed by micropolitan (17.7) and small metropolitan (14.5) areas. Mortality risk increased sharply with age, rising from 2.32 in the 35-44 age group to 284.0 in those 85 and older.

CRC mortality in South Dakota declined from 1999-2020, but disparities remain, especially among men, rural areas, and older populations. Enhancing screening, early detection, and healthcare access is crucial for further reduction.