Michigan Medicine studies reveal barriers and opportunities in colon cancer screening
Two Michigan Medicine-led studies explore reasons behind declining colon cancer screening rates, highlighting patient preferences and the influence of policy changes on follow-up procedures.
As colon cancer screening rates are declining, two Michigan Medicine-led studies aimed to figure out why. Each study analyzed different parts of the screening process. Their findings are summarized in a press release.
The first study surveyed both patients and physicians about their screening preferences. Both populations received thorough information about the tests. Key findings:
Three quarters of patient-respondents said they would rather be screened for colon cancer via a stool or blood test, rather than receive a colonoscopy.
95% of physicians prefer their patients receive a colonoscopy for colon cancer screening.
The second study reviewed the effects of “a 2023 federal policy change that eliminated out of pocket costs for those who get an abnormal result on a home-based stool test and then need a colonoscopy” on screening. Key findings:
After the policy was put in place, 41% more follow-up colonoscopies occurred through November 2023, suggesting financial barriers could play a part in screening.
Additionally, this suggests that increased noninvasive testing could influence “a shift in use of colonoscopies.”
There was no change observed in the total number of colonoscopies given per month during the study period.
A. Mark Fendrick M.D., a University of Michigan Medical School professor and lead author of one paper and senior author of the other emphasized in a press release, “Given that one-third of insured adults in this country who qualify for no-cost colorectal cancer screening under the Affordable Care Act are not getting screened, we need to better understand the reasons why eligible individuals are not receiving this potentially life-saving preventive service. We hope these findings will increase the number of those undergoing screening and follow-up tests when necessary, ultimately leading to an increase in the number of pre-malignant polyps - that may progress to cancer – removed and more cancer cases detected at an early stage, when this cancer is more effectively and less expensively treated.”
