UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Methods:In a survey of 1,000+ individuals, age 50 and over, over 90% report that their primary care physician has recommended colorectal cancer screening but only 50% report they had been tested. Individuals' perceived barriers to screening include insurance status, co-pays, necessary preparation, fear of the procedure, lack of time.

Over 95% of family care physicians and endoscopists in Rhode Island recommend colonoscopy as the gold standard rather than sigmoidoscopy and/or FOBT. Primary Care Physicians similarly recommend colonoscopy. The number of endoscopists appears sufficient for the State's needs although female endoscopists are lacking. The number of endoscopy suites has increased by 50% over the last 3 years and data indicates that those individuals with insurance can have a colonoscopy performed for screening within 3 months anywhere in the State.

Results: Having defined our current challenge, our agenda includes developing programs to remove the perceived barriers. The economic barrier of the co-pay remains an important issue. (Blue Cross/Blue Shield can be as high as $400; Medicare can be $200). Improving the number of endoscopy facilities accepting uninsured and underinsured individuals is recognized as a barrier that must be dealt with on a State level if socioeconomically depressed individuals in the State are to receive this important screening procedure. Educational programs to improve acceptance of the newer preparation programs and to diminish fear are being made available throughout the State. The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island has been developed to address these issues.