What factors influence a patient's intent to get colorectal cancer screening?

A patient’s confidence in their ability to schedule, plan for and properly conduct their part in colorectal screening methods is a key factor that predicts whether they intend to be tested, according to new research from Penn State College of Medicine. The findings suggest that educating patients could improve screening rates.

Although it’s recommended that adults between the ages of 50 and 75 undergo screening for colorectal cancer, only 65 percent of Americans were screened in 2010 according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“We all know that screening for colorectal cancer makes a difference, but we’re really failing to get people adequately screened for it,” said lead researcher and IHPI member Mack T. Ruffin, chair of family and community medicine at the College of Medicine.

"If you have high self-efficacy, you’re far more likely to intend to get screened,” Ruffin said. “It reflects knowledge experience, or understanding of the testing options. If you’re not sure how to do the test or get it done, you’re less likely to intend on getting it.”

A patient’s confidence may be particularly important for colorectal cancer screening. Both tests for colorectal cancer – colonoscopy and stool blood testing – involve a patient’s planning and preparation outside of their doctor’s office.