Abstract
This study examined (a) differences in rates of initiating colorectal cancer screening across age groups, and (b) factors
associated with initiation of colorectal cancer screening among persons age 50–75. Data from 1,699 adults age 50–75 were analyzed
from a random sample of households in an eight-county region surrounding the Brazos Valley in Texas. Bivariate descriptive
analyses were performed. Logistic regression was employed to assess relationships between demographic, health status, and
healthcare utilization variables and having initiated colorectal cancer examination. Having more than a high school education
(OR = 1.48, p = 0.002), having insurance (OR = 1.76, p = 0.007), being obese (OR = 1.58, p = 0.015), and having a routine health check-up within the past 2 years (OR = 3.39, p < 0.001) were associated with an increased likelihood of having a colorectal cancer examination. The findings suggest that
routine interactions with health care providers may encourage persons to initiate colorectal cancer screening according to
guidelines.
associated with initiation of colorectal cancer screening among persons age 50–75. Data from 1,699 adults age 50–75 were analyzed
from a random sample of households in an eight-county region surrounding the Brazos Valley in Texas. Bivariate descriptive
analyses were performed. Logistic regression was employed to assess relationships between demographic, health status, and
healthcare utilization variables and having initiated colorectal cancer examination. Having more than a high school education
(OR = 1.48, p = 0.002), having insurance (OR = 1.76, p = 0.007), being obese (OR = 1.58, p = 0.015), and having a routine health check-up within the past 2 years (OR = 3.39, p < 0.001) were associated with an increased likelihood of having a colorectal cancer examination. The findings suggest that
routine interactions with health care providers may encourage persons to initiate colorectal cancer screening according to
guidelines.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-8
- DOI 10.1007/s10900-012-9574-8
- Authors
- Karon L. Phillips, Health & Aging Policy Fellow, 13607 Colgate Way, Apt. 317, Silver Spring, MD 20904, USA
- Matthew Lee Smith, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- SangNam Ahn, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
- Marcia G. Ory, Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Rural Public Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77845, USA
- Angie K. Hochhalter, Patient Engagement and Safety Research Program, Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX 76508, USA
- Journal Journal of Community Health
- Online ISSN 1573-3610
- Print ISSN 0094-5145