Although incidence rates of colorectal cancer have been decreasing since 1985, it is the third most common cancer in both men and women. The decrease partly reflects increased screening and polyp removal, which prevents progression of polyps to cancer. In Arkansas 60.1 males out of 100,000 and 43.4 females out of 100,000 are expected to be diagnosed in 2007. The death rates for males and females in Arkansas are slightly above the national averages. From 1990 until 2000, the colorectal cancer mortality rate has been significantly higher for African Americans than for the rest of Arkansas and the nation. Hispanic males and females experience lower rates of colorectal cancer than non-Hispanics.
Risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
- Family history of the disease.
- A history of adenomatous colon polyps that are greater than one centimeter.
- A history of inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
- Tobacco use.
- Alcohol consumption.
- Being overweight.
- And perhaps high dietary intake of red meat and dietary animal fat, and low levels of physical activity.
Screening for colorectal cancer is recommended at ages 50 and older for those at average risk and earlier for those at increased risk. Colorectal cancer screenings consist of either visualizing the inside of the colon with a colonoscope, flexible sigmoidoscope or double-contrast barium enema X-ray exam, or by testing for blood in the stool. The Coalition has worked with ADH and the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute to provide funding, guidance and community resources to develop a pilot program for improved colorectal screening and research. The pilot program provides education and training for primary care physicians, no-cost screening for patients who meet program guidelines and have no insurance, and assessment of screening resources in Arkansas.
The Coalition has established the following objectives to decrease the burden of colorectal cancer in Arkansas:
- Increase public awareness about colorectal cancer.
- Devise systems or promote system changes that will increase colorectal cancer screening, particularly for minority and underserved populations.
- Engage community groups to bring together local healthcare providers and residents to enhance education and screening rates in rural areas of the state.
- Influence legislation that will support increased colorectal screening.
- Ensure that patients who receive positive test results and are in need of further services receive timely and appropriate follow-up care.
- Reduce racial disparities in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality.