Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, estimated to account for more than 53,000 deaths per year. It is also the third most common type of cancer with an estimated 152,810 new cases expected in 2024, predominantly in the younger population under 50 years old. Despite its prevalence, rates of incidence and mortality for colorectal cancer has been decreasing, due in part to the availability of screening tests which allows for early detection and treatment.
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Yet this progress is not consistent, with some population groups having a disproportionally higher risk of developing or dying from colorectal cancer. This risk stems from health inequities that impede access to care that can prevent, detect, and manage the disease, leading to worse health outcomes and higher costs of care.
“Health inequities are not new and have been highly prevalent among those with cancer, including colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Neema Stephens, national medical director for health equity for The Cigna Group. “Extra efforts are needed to help ensure underserved and historically marginalized communities can access the proper prevention and care services they need.”
Colorectal cancer disparities among Americans
Colorectal cancer diagnosis and mortality rates differ widely across racial and ethnic groups, with American Indians/Alaska Natives and African Americans/Blacks most at risk of developing colorectal cancer and most likely to die of the disease.