LATEBREAKER
Screening
Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Screening Among U.S. Immigrants: The Impact of Time in the U.S. and Socioeconomic Factors Khezia Kawaya-Tshola* Khezia Kawaya-Tshola Christian Okitondo
This study explored the factors influencing Colorectal Cancer (CRC) screening among U.S. immigrants, particularly examining the impact of duration of residency in the U.S., socioeconomic factors, and healthcare access. Despite the known effectiveness of CRC screening in reducing mortality, there is a notable disparity in screening rates between U.S. immigrants and native-born Americans.
Data from the National Health Interview Survey spanning 2010-2018 was utilized. The study focused on a sample of 6,537 immigrants aged 50-75, stratified into two distinct groups based on their time in the U.S.: 833 immigrants with less than 15 years in the country, and 5,704 with 15 years or more. The assessment of CRC screening adherence was conducted using sample weight-adjusted multivariable logistic regression, enabling the calculation of adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
The overall CRC screening rate among U.S. immigrants was 50.6%, varying significantly based on time in the U.S. Those in the U.S. for less than 15 years had a rate of 31.5% compared to 53.2% for those with 15 or more years (p<.001). Additionally, the likelihood of undergoing screening was significantly higher among immigrants with 15 or more years in the U.S. (AOR 1.57; 95% CI 1.25-1.98; p<.001). Health insurance emerged as a critical factor, with insured individuals demonstrating more than double the likelihood of screening compared to uninsured counterparts (AOR 2.12; 95% CI 1.66-2.73; p<.001). The presence of a regular healthcare provider was also significantly associated with increased screening likelihood (AOR 2.91; 95% CI 2.23-3.79; p<.001).
This study highlights the need for policy efforts to improve healthcare system adaptation among U.S. immigrants, particularly those newly arrived. It emphasizes the crucial role of health insurance and access in enhancing CRC screening rates, underscoring the importance of addressing healthcare disparities in immigrant populations.