Screening for Success: Turning the Tables on Colon Cancer Before It Strikes

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
• Screening reduces colorectal cancer incidence and mortality.
• Suboptimal screening adherence is prevalent, especially in underserved communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate colorectal cancer screening adherence in patients aged 45-75.
• Assess the impact of direct patient outreach at Christ Health Center.
• Identify barriers to screening completion in a Federally Qualified Health Center setting.

Main Methods:

• Identified 1,870 patients aged 45-75 lacking recent colorectal cancer screening.
• Verified screening status via Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
• Contacted patients up to three times to encourage screening via colonoscopy, FIT, or stool DNA testing.

Main Results:

• Of 585 contacted patients, 54.5% agreed to screening; 45.5% declined.
• 1,046 patients (55.9%) could not be reached.
• Females aged 65-75 were most likely to lack up-to-date screening.

Conclusions:

• Direct patient outreach significantly improved colorectal cancer screening uptake.
• Incomplete EMR documentation and patient engagement are persistent barriers.
• Enhanced outreach, record integration, and targeted education are crucial for underserved populations.