Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates: A Comprehensive Analysis of Race, Ethnicity, and Insurance Status

Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern in the U.S., with an estimated 154,270 new cases and 52,900 deaths projected for 2025. The incidence rate is 36.5 per 100,000 people, with non-Hispanic Black individuals 15% more likely to develop and 35% more likely to die from colorectal cancer compared to non-Hispanic Whites. The disease is more prevalent in men, with a rate of 49.4 per 100,000 in Black populations. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death, emphasizing the need for screening.

We conducted a retrospective analysis (2019–2021), which examined colorectal cancer screening rates across racial/ethnic groups and insurance status using standardized healthcare records. Data processing included normalization, handling missing values, and applying statistical methods using Python. Visualizations highlighted disparities, while comparative analyses assessed differences in screening rates and insurance impact.

Screening disparities persisted across racial/ethnic groups and insurance status. White Non-Hispanic insured individuals had the highest screening rates (71.2% in 2021), while uninsured Hispanic populations had the lowest (30.5%). The difference between insured and uninsured groups ranged from 25.3 to 26.9 percentage points. No group met the Healthy People 2030 target of 74.4%, with the overall average at 62.3%. The 40.7 percentage point gap between the highest and lowest groups suggests systemic barriers beyond insurance status alone.

To address disparities, we recommend expanding Medicaid coverage, covering alternative screening methods, and implementing patient navigation programs. A phased five-year plan includes education initiatives, screening registries, and sustainable funding mechanisms. International models, such as the Netherlands (73% participation) and the UK (68%), demonstrate the potential for improvement. A projected 15-20% increase in screening rates and a 25% reduction in disparities could significantly lower late-stage diagnoses and mortality, requiring sustained policy efforts and community engagement.