“BeneFITs” to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening in Priority Populations

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Many CRC deaths could be averted by screening because screening decreases both CRC incidence and mortality by 30% to 60%.¹ Although CRC screening rates have risen in recent years, with 65% of Americans aged 50 to 75 years reporting being up-to-date,² rates remain suboptimal and are marked by pronounced racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities. Only 53% of Latinos² and 39% of individuals with incomes below the federal poverty level are current for CRC screening (Figure). Low socioeconomic status is also associated with higher rates of CRC mortality.³ Increasing screening in priority populations could substantially decrease morbidity and mortality from CRC.