Factors associated with colorectal cancer screening among Chinese-Americans

Abstract

Objective: To investigate factors associated with receipt of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among urban senior Chinese-Americans.

Methods: Two hundred three men and women from three senior centers completed a questionnaire that included sections on demographics, fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy use, and potential barriers to screening.

Results: Receipt of a FOBT within the prior 12 months (37.9% of sample) was associated with fewer years of US residency, lower level of worries or fears of test results, and higher level of perceived susceptibility to CRC. Receipt of a flexible sigmoidoscopy within the past 5 years (22.2% of sample) was associated with higher levels of education, lower levels of worries or fears of test results, and higher level of perceived susceptibility of CRC.

Conclusions: Intervention programs may target these areas to facilitate CRC screening in Chinese-Americans so that national goals can be met for all Americans.