A Cleveland Clinic-led study has identified geographic “hot spots” across the United States where Hispanic/Latino populations face lower colorectal cancer screening rates. Published in the American Journal of Public Health, this research provides a crucial step towards addressing healthcare disparities affecting these communities.
The Hispanic/Latino population currently has the lowest colorectal cancer screening rate among U.S. racial and ethnic groups, often resulting in later diagnoses and poorer treatment outcomes. To tackle this issue, researchers analyzed cancer screening and census databases, creating an interactive web map that illustrates areas where targeted interventions could have the most significant impact.
“This approach advances our ability to pinpoint neighborhoods that may benefit from targeted education or intervention programs, taking into account unique characteristics, such as cultural values and language,” said Blake Buchalter, Ph.D., the study’s first author.
The study’s results are classified by Hispanic/Latino region or country of origin, recognizing the diversity within these communities. Stephanie Schmit, Ph.D., M.P.H, the study’s senior author, emphasized the importance of this distinction, stating, “It’s important to remember that Hispanic/Latino communities are incredibly diverse with respect to many factors, such as ancestry, culture and health behaviors.”
The researchers hope their work will inspire further investigation into the specific barriers to colorectal cancer screening in these priority areas. By increasing screening rates in targeted neighborhoods, they aim to contribute to improving national screening rates and ultimately reduce healthcare disparities.
This research, supported in part by the National Cancer Institute, represents an important step towards developing more effective, culturally sensitive interventions to promote colorectal cancer screening among Hispanic/Latino populations across the United States.
See “Geographic analysis pinpoints areas for improved colorectal cancer screening in Hispanic/Latino populations” (August 1, 2024)
