CRC Screening Improvements Decrease Mortality, but Disparities Persist
Increased colorectal cancer screening rates are significantly associated with declining mortality, though racial and socioeconomic disparities persist.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates increased from 1999 to 2023 and are associated with a decrease in mortality. Significant socioeconomic and racial disparities in CRC screening continue, according to study results presented at the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 2025 conference.
Investigators reviewed data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and CDC WONDER databases spanning 1999 to 2024. Researchers analyzed CRC screening trends and age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) to assess temporal shifts.
The age-adjusted CRC screening rates increased from 41.53% in 1999 to 76.30% in 2023.
According to study results, increased CRC screening rates are associated with declining mortality.
Author's summary: CRC screening improvements decrease mortality rates.