A new study by Cleveland Clinic researchers has uncovered significant disparities in colorectal cancer screening rates among Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. This finding is particularly concerning as colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in these populations.
Dr. Blake Buchalter, who led the research team, emphasized the public health importance of this issue. “Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death among Hispanic or Latino populations, and so it is an extremely important public health problem,” he explained.
The researchers developed an interactive map to identify areas with the lowest colorectal cancer screening rates. They examined different component groups within the Hispanic and Latino communities, including Cuban, Mexican, and Dominican populations. While the exact reasons for these disparities remain unclear and require further study, the data provides valuable insights for targeted interventions.
Buchalter hopes this research will lead to improved screening rates. He noted, “Policy makers, public health practitioners, and the public can actually go online and look at this [interactive map] and sort of see what these relationships look like in different geographic regions of the United States. And then that helps to basically identify these areas where funding or other policies could be targeted.”
The study’s findings are particularly relevant during National Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting the need for increased attention to health disparities affecting Hispanic and Latino communities. Current guidelines recommend that adults begin regular colorectal cancer screenings at age 45, with earlier screening for those at increased risk or with a family history.
See “Colorectal Cancer Screening Disparities Found in Hispanic/Latino Communities, Research Shows” (September 18, 2024)
