Health Disparities
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Disparities in the Mississippi Delta: The Role of Screening and Social Determinants of Health Sudheer Koutha* Sudheer Koutha
Title
“Understanding Colorectal Cancer Disparities in the Mississippi Delta: The Role of Screening and Social Determinants of Health”
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Mississippi leads the nation in CRC mortality, with an age-adjusted rate of 17.6 per 100,000 population (2018–2022). The Mississippi Delta, a region marked by high rates of chronic disease and significant socioeconomic challenges, bears a disproportionate burden of CRC. This study examines disparities in CRC outcomes and screening rates in the Delta, with a focus on understanding the interplay of risk factors and social determinants of health.
Methods
A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Mississippi Cancer Registry, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), and Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). CRC incidence, mortality, and screening rates were stratified by gender, race, and socioeconomic status. Modifiable risk factors, including obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, and suboptimal screening uptake, were assessed. Geospatial mapping was utilized to visualize the distribution of CRC outcomes, disparities, and screening gaps across the region.
Results
From 2018–2022, Mississippi’s CRC mortality rate (17.6 per 100,000) exceeded the national average (12.9 per 100,000) by 36%. Disparities were pronounced among Black males, who had a CRC mortality rate of 27.9 per 100,000—32% higher than the national rate for Black males (21.3 per 100,000). In the Delta region, Black males experienced a mortality rate of 37.0 per 100,000, 66% higher than their White counterparts (22.3 per 100,000). Screening rates were suboptimal, with only 59% of adults aged 45 and older meeting USPSTF recommendations in 2022. Delta counties consistently reported the lowest screening rates and highest mortality rates, exceeding the state average of 17.6 per 100,000.
Conclusions
Colorectal cancer disparities in the Mississippi Delta are driven by a confluence of modifiable risk factors, socioeconomic inequities, and limited access to preventive care. This study highlights the critical need for culturally tailored screening programs, enhanced healthcare access, and interventions addressing social determinants of health. Urgent, targeted efforts are essential to reduce CRC burden and improve health equity in this high-risk population.