Elucidating the Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening: A Cross-Sectional Survey Analysis of a Rural Population in West Texas
Introduction
The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has increased steadily in the last decade in the United States and is one of the leading causes of death. However, screening rates for colorectal cancer continue to remain at an all-time low in the United States and worldwide. Cancer screening programs can effectively reduce the burden of cancer when designed properly to ensure compliance and efficacy.
Methods
A cross-sectional study conducted through distribution of a survey to observe trends in the West Texas population pertaining to colorectal cancer screening barriers. A quarter-page short survey was distributed at cancer screening events to identify possible barriers to cancer screening. Participants were provided with nine options to select from including: embarrassment, unpleasantness of test, transportation, cost/lack of insurance, fear of results, lack of symptoms, lack of physician recommendations, lack of awareness, language barriers, and other causes. The questionnaire also recorded patient demographics including age, gender, and race.
Results
A total of 194 patients responded to our survey: 122 (62.9%) females, 71 males (36.6%), and one did not specify. Genders were generally equally represented among all races. The ages ranged from 13 to 86 years with a mean of 51.79 and a standard deviation of 13.5. The overwhelmingly main barrier for screening was lack of funding or insurance (66%).
Conclusion
Given low screening rates for CRC, collaborative efforts should be made to remind more patients to have close follow-up with their primary care physicians. Multilevel interventions can help address these barriers in preventing this deadly disease.