Clinical Report: Postal Outreach for Colorectal Cancer Screening in CHCs
Overview
Revise to clarify the comparison between FIT and FIT-DNA outreach and the significance of the screening rate differences.
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality in the U.S., particularly affecting underserved populations. Screening is crucial for reducing incidence and mortality, yet participation rates remain low in community health centers (CHCs). Innovative outreach strategies, such as mailed screening tests, are essential to improve screening rates in these settings.
Data Highlights
Group
Screening Rate at 6 Months
Mailed FIT
9.7%
Mailed FIT-DNA
30.0%
Key Findings
Mailed FIT outreach increased screening completion to 30.0% compared to 9.7% for standard outreach (P < .001).
FIT-DNA offers higher sensitivity and is supported by a manufacturer-administered patient assistance program.
The study included 8 CHC sites with varying baseline screening rates (23.9% to 66.5%).
Participants were aged 45 to 75 years and due for CRC screening.
Follow-up colonoscopy rates after abnormal results remain low, indicating a need for improved diagnostic pathways.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers in CHCs should consider implementing mailed outreach strategies to enhance CRC screening participation. Additionally, addressing follow-up care for abnormal results is critical to ensure comprehensive patient management.
Conclusion
The CARES study highlights the effectiveness of mailed outreach in increasing CRC screening rates in CHCs, emphasizing the need for continued innovation in patient engagement strategies.
by Folasade P. May, Suzanne Brodney, Jessica J. Tuan, Sapna Syngal, Andrew T. Chan, Beth Glenn, Gina Johnson, Yuchiao Chang, David A. Drew, Beverly Moy, Nicolette J. Rodriguez, Erica T. Warner, Adjoa Anyane-Yeboa, Chinedu Ukaegbu, Anjelica Q. Davis, Kimberly Schoolcraft, Susan Regan, Kelley Le Beaux, Ellen T. Lee, Roopa Bhat, Alexis Gordon, Linh K. Phan, Andrea Fernanda Cortés Chirino, Caylin J. Marotta, Rachel G. Z. Kindermann, Jennifer S. Haas
