J Cancer 2013; 4(3):270-280. doi:10.7150/jca.5833 This issue Cite

Review

Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System

Mia DeBarros, Scott R. Steele

Department of Surgery, Madigan Healthcare System, Tacoma, Washington, USA.

Citation:
DeBarros M, Steele SR. Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System. J Cancer 2013; 4(3):270-280. doi:10.7150/jca.5833. https://www.jcancer.org/v04p0270.htm
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Abstract

Introduction: The military health system (MHS) a unique setting to analyze implementation programs as well as outcomes for colorectal cancer (CRC). Here we look at the efficacy of different CRC screening methods, attributes and results within the MHS, and current barriers to increase compliance.

Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted utilizing PubMed and the Cochrane library. Key-word combinations included colorectal cancer screening, racial disparity, risk factors, colorectal cancer, screening modalities, and randomized control trials. Directed searches were also performed of embedded references.

Results: Despite screening guidelines from several national organizations, extensive barriers to widespread screening remain, especially for minority populations. These barriers are diverse, ranging from education and access problems to personal beliefs. Screening rates in MHS have been reported to be generally higher at 71% compared to national averages of 50-65%.

Conclusion: CRC screening can be highly effective at improving detection of both pre-malignant and early cancers. Improved patient education and directed efforts are needed to improve CRC screening both nationally and within the MHS.

Keywords: colorectal cancer, screening, colonoscopy, military healthcare system, VA, flexible sigmoidoscopy, FOBT.


Citation styles

APA
DeBarros, M., Steele, S.R. (2013). Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System. Journal of Cancer, 4(3), 270-280. https://doi.org/10.7150/jca.5833.

ACS
DeBarros, M.; Steele, S.R. Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System. J. Cancer 2013, 4 (3), 270-280. DOI: 10.7150/jca.5833.

NLM
DeBarros M, Steele SR. Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System. J Cancer 2013; 4(3):270-280. doi:10.7150/jca.5833. https://www.jcancer.org/v04p0270.htm

CSE
DeBarros M, Steele SR. 2013. Colorectal Cancer Screening in an Equal Access Healthcare System. J Cancer. 4(3):270-280.

This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY-NC) License. See http://ivyspring.com/terms for full terms and conditions.
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