Science Current Events | Science News | Brightsurf.com
 
Email a Friend Send to a friend
Printer Friendly Print Racial and ethnic differences in colorectal cancer emphasize importance of screening

Racial and ethnic differences in colorectal cancer emphasize importance of screening

October 15, 2007

New research presented at the 72nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology emphasizes the importance of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among racial and ethnic minorities, who have a higher incidence of colorectal cancer compared to Caucasians. Two studies found more African-Americans had advanced polyps on the right side of the colon than Caucasians, while results from colonoscopy screenings of Latin Americans revealed similarly high risk findings to African-Americans.

African-Americans have a high overall incidence of colorectal cancer and a greater prevalence of proximal or right-sided polyps and cancerous lesions. The right side of the colon includes the cecum, ascending colon and proximal transverse colon and cannot be reached by flexible sigmoidoscopy.




The reasons for higher incidence rates in African-Americans are unclear; however, dietary, nutritional factors, rates of physical inactivity, variability in screening rates, lower use of diagnostic testing, and increasing smoking rates have been most commonly implicated.

Dr. Roy D. Yen and his colleagues from the University at Buffalo and the VA Western New York analyzed the results of 587 colonoscopies (78 African-Americans, 502 Caucasians) performed at their institution in 2004. The number and location of polyps and presence of advanced lesions between the two cohorts were examined. They found significantly more African-American patients (14 percent) had advanced right-sided, or proximal, polyps compared to Caucasian patients (5.4 percent). Researchers also found more black patients had advanced polyps, proximal polyps and proximal colon cancers than whites.

Based on the results of this study, "Flexible sigmoidsocopy may be inadequate for colorectal cancer screening in this population. African Americans should undergo colonoscopy with particular attention for proximal lesions, however larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings," said Dr. Yen.

Colonoscopy Among Latin Americans Reveals Similar Incidence of High Risk Findings to African-Americans

In a retrospective analysis conducted at The University Hospital and the New Jersey Medical School in Newark, NJ, Dr. Stanley H. Weiss, Dr. Mark J. Sterling, and their research team reviewed screening colonoscopies performed in 2005 and 2006. They found Latin Americans had a higher than expected incidence of polyps, pathologically significant lesions, and significant right-sided lesions, similar to previously reported findings in African-American patients.

Of the 756 screening colonoscopies, 287 (38 percent) were in Latin Americans and 331 (44 percent) were in African-Americans. Forty-eight percent of Latin Americans had pathologically significant lesions, compared to forty-six percent among African-Americans. The percentage of pathologically significant right-sided polyps was similar in Latin Americans (57 percent) and African-Americans (62 percent). However, researchers found that African-Americans were significantly more likely to have a large polyp (>1 cm) than Latin Americans and were more likely to have a large right-sided polyp.

According to study leader Dr. Stanley H. Weiss, "Because right-sided lesions are detectable with colonoscopy, which examines the whole colon, but not by flexible sigmoidoscopy, these findings have important implications for appropriate screening for colon cancer in Latin Americans."

American College of Gastroenterology



Related Colorectal Cancer Current Events and Colorectal Cancer News Articles Colorectal Cancer Current Events and Colorectal Cancer News RSS Colorectal Cancer Current Events and Colorectal Cancer News RSS
'Cross-talk' mechanism contributes to colorectal cancer
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health have identified a molecular mechanism that allows two powerful signaling pathways to interact and begin a process leading to colorectal tumors.

African-Americans with colorectal cancer have poorer outcomes, lower survival rates
New research published in the November issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons shows that African-American patients with colorectal cancer are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced disease and are less likely to undergo surgical procedures compared with Caucasians, suggesting that improvements in screening and rates of operation may reduce differences in colorectal cancer outcomes for African-Americans.

Colon cancer screening more effective earlier in day, UCLA study finds
The effectiveness of a screening colonoscopy may depend on the time of day it is performed. According to a new UCLA study, early-morning colonoscopies yielded more polyps per patient than later screenings, and fewer polyps were found hour by hour as the day progressed.

1 disease, not 1 demographic
The Asian continent has nearly four billion people living in 47 different countries, and each of these groups has their own unique set of health issues. But when they come to the United States, they're often lumped into one large demographic: "Asian/Pacific Islander."

Study shows unsedated colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening well accepted by patients
Researchers from Taiwan report in a new study that unsedated colonoscopy for primary colorectal cancer screening is well accepted in a majority of patients.

M. D. Anderson redefines screening guidelines for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers
Drawing on years of experience in cancer research and patient care, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center released today the most comprehensive, risk-based screening guidelines publicly available to date for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers.

The bowels of infection
Current research suggests that latent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection may exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The related report by Onyeagocha et al, "Latent cytomegalovirus infection exacerbates experimental colitis," appears in the November 2009 issue of The American Journal of Pathology.

How to Lower Costs, Waiting Times for Colonoscopies
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, leading to over 50,000 fatalities every year.

Excess body weight causes over 124,000 new cancers a year in Europe
At least 124,000 new cancers in 2008 in Europe may have been caused by excess body weight, according to estimates from a new modelling study.

Adding cetuximab to chemotherapy reduces advanced lung cancer death risk by 13 percent
Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who are given cetuximab (Erbitux) in addition to chemotherapy are 13% less likely to die than those who receive chemotherapy alone, regardless of which chemotherapy drug cocktail is used, new research finds. They also experience slower disease progression and an increased chance of tumour shrinkage.
More Colorectal Cancer Current Events and Colorectal Cancer News Articles
American Cancer Society's Complete Guide to Colorectal Cancer

American Cancer Society's Complete Guide to Colorectal Cancer
by American Cancer Society (Author)

Don't die of embarrassment--get informed about colorectal cancer

Although colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in men and women, you may be unaware of your risk and don't know what you can do to prevent this serious disease. You may be too embarrassed to ask your doctor about changes in your bowel habits or get screened for colorectal cancer. American Cancer Society's Complete Guide to Colorectal Cancer provides sound information and support if you are concerned about or diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Written by experts in oncology, nursing, research, and colorectal cancer care, the up-to-date, evidence-based text explores every aspect of colorectal cancer, from physical to emotional aspects of the disease, including:

What colorectal...

Be a Survivor: Colorectal Cancer Treatment Guide

Be a Survivor: Colorectal Cancer Treatment Guide
by Vladimir Lange (Author)

Dr. Lange’s comprehensive overview of cancer and treatment options offers detailed information using simple, concise language and a wide variety of color photos and drawings. Colorectal cancer patients need to know more about their disease, yet there is an overload of information. Be a Survivor gives the patient the specific, reliable and necessary information to make good decisions about their cancer and treatment options. Annually, 150,000 Americans are told they have colorectal cancer, making it one of the top three most common cancers in the United States. Diagnosed early, colorectal cancer is treatable, often curable, and vey preventable. This resource covers all aspects of colorectal cancer—from diagnosis to recovery, including a chapter for the patient's spouse.

  Progress in Colorectal Cancer
by Mediscript



First Check Home ColoCheck Home Test, Colorectal Disease, 1 Test (Pack of 2)

First Check Home ColoCheck Home Test, Colorectal Disease, 1 Test (Pack of 2)
by First Check

A First Check at 50 product. No specimen handling. No diet restrictions. FDA cleared. Fast. Accurate. Simple. A home test for the early warning signs of Colorectal Disease. Results in minutes. Early detection is key. First Check ColoCheck provides informa

New Tests, Treatments: Better Outcome for Colorectal Cancer

New Tests, Treatments: Better Outcome for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer mortality in the U.S. Advances in imaging, genetics, molecular diagnostics, surgical techniques and chemotherapy are now making significant gains in our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat this serious disease. Dr. Fisher reviews some of these recent successes and shares a vision of future care based on current research.

  Screening for Colorectal Cancer: An Easy Step to Save Your Life (Three Real Patient Stories)
Also With: American Digestive Health Foundation (Producer), Chuck Peet (Host)



Beating Colorectal Cancer Together Long Sleeve T-shirt Large White

Beating Colorectal Cancer Together Long Sleeve T-shirt Large White
by Shop Zeus



Colorectal Cancer Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad
by MyHeritageWear.com

The Colorectal Cancer Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Colorectal Cancer Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Colorectal Cancer Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness!

Understanding Colorectal Cancer Anatomical Chart (Laminated)

Understanding Colorectal Cancer Anatomical Chart (Laminated)
by Anatomical Chart Company

Understanding Colorectal Cancer Anatomical Chart defines colorectal cancer and shows colorectal anatomy with the following pathologies: * Adenocarcinoma of colon * Circumferential carcinoma of the transverse colon * Colonic polyps * Adenocarcinoma of jejunum * Adenocarcinoma of the rectosigmoid region The chart describes risk factors, signs and symptoms, screening and diagnostic tests, and treatment options, and illustrates and explains the stages of cancer.

Beating Colorectal Cancer Together Keychain

Beating Colorectal Cancer Together Keychain
by Design a Product LLC

Text on keychain: Beating Colorectal Cancer Together
* Durable acrylic key chain is crystal-clear and double-sided so the artwork or message is seen twice.
* Sturdy metal ring holds your keys securely.
* Full color printed images or messages are included.
* If you have new ideas or need help selecting text for your custom keychains please contact us.
* Size: 2 1/8" x 3 1/2" (Approx. business card)

© 2009 BrightSurf.com