People living in rural, remote, and frontier settings face higher colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality rates, increased prevalence of risk factors associated with CRC, and unique barriers to cancer screenings when compared to non-rural residents. Common obstacles to screening can be exacerbated by the challenges that come with living in areas that are less densely populated and more geographically isolated. Overcoming these barriers requires creativity, resilience, and flexibility.
To address this need, the ACS NCCRT developed this guidebook to support key community partners in understanding and overcoming the unique challenges and common barriers to CRC screening faced in rural communities. The guidebook features:
- Recent data and statistics illustrating the burden of CRC in rural areas
- Five recommended actions to increase CRC screening rates
- Five case studies highlighting best practices and lessons learned from geographically and demographically diverse organizations
Learn more and access the guidebook here.