Work

What Would Make Getting Colorectal Cancer Screening Easier? Perspectives from Screeners and Nonscreeners

Year: 2012

Type: article

Abstract: Background. Despite the availability of multiple effective tests for colorectal cancer (CRC), screening rates are low. Greater understanding of barriers between screeners and nonscreeners may improve public health initiatives to increase CRC screening (CRCS). Methods. We conducted a content analysis of 625 responses to the question: "Was there anything that would have made getting tested easier?" Respondents were patients at a multispecialty practice who participated in a behavioral intervention trial to increase CRCS. Using clinic records, we classified patients as early-screeners (<6 months), late-screeners(6-12 months), and nonscreeners (>12 months). Results. Both screeners and nonscreeners reported the same categories of barriers. However, early-screeners predominantly cited dislike of test attributes such as bowel preparation, whereas nonscreeners cited concerns regarding finances and work and family responsibilities. Conclusion. Multilevel strategies that address scheduling barriers and external screening barriers may improve CRCS. Future studies may test hypotheses about mediators explaining how screeners overcome barriers.

Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice

DOI: 10.1155/2012/895807

Authors: Gilda G. Medina, Amy McQueen, Anthony J. Greisinger, L. Kay Bartholomew, Sally W. Vernon

Institutions: Washington University in St. Louis, Kelsey Research Foundation

Language: English

Topic: Colorectal Cancer Screening and Detection

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,830