In recent years, there has been a positive trend in the decline of new cases of colon cancer among older adults, largely attributed to improved screening techniques. Early detection of cancer can lead to successful treatment and even a cure. However, many adults who are eligible for routine screening at age 45 are not getting the preventative colonoscopies they need. This can lead to the disease being diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult.
In response to this issue, medical professionals at Temple Health are working to increase access to screening options, reduce racial disparities in outcomes, and reach marginalized individuals with preventative care. Dr. Abraham Ifrah, an internal medicine resident at Temple, emphasizes the importance of reaching those facing barriers to accessing life-saving screenings.
To address challenges in completing a colonoscopy, such as lack of transportation or health insurance, Temple Health is promoting awareness around take-home fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) as an alternative screening option. By increasing awareness and accessibility to screening methods, Temple Health aims to improve outcomes and reduce disparities in colorectal cancer detection.
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