Abstract A133: The Church Study: Bridging the gap in colorectal cancer screening of Black patients

Abstract Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the US, disproportionately affecting Black Americans with a 25% higher risk and 40% greater mortality than non-Hispanic White Americans. Data on CRC screening preferences among Black patients is limited. We conducted a survey to evaluate CRC screening preferences and barriers to screening after a culturally tailored educational talk among Black churchgoers. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the preferences and barriers to CRC screening among Black Americans, utilizing culturally tailored educational interventions to enhance screening uptake. Methods: Participants aged 45-85, at average CRC risk, were recruited from three predominantly Black churches in disadvantaged areas of Atlanta, excluding high-risk individuals and those outside the age range. CRC education, vetted for cultural sensitivity, was provided. Informed consent was waived by Morehouse IRB but ensured through educational sessions with opportunities for questions. A 30-question survey covered Demographics, Medical History, Screening Experience, and Preferences. Participants received a 25 Amazon gift card post-survey. Descriptive statistics were applied to demographics and CRC screening preferences, categorized per NCCN guidelines. Results: Out of 101 participants, 64% preferred blood-based screenings and 19% preferred fecal-based testing. Over 73% reported being up-to-date with CRC screening, with more than 61% having a colonoscopy as their most recent CRC screening test. Additionally, 30% of participants were willing to be CRC awareness advocates. Healthcare provider access was high, with 94% reporting having a primary care provider. Trust in providers was approximately 92%, with 4% expressing distrust and 4% uncertain. Conclusions: Despite being in underserved areas, participants reported no significant barriers to CRC screening, with most up-to-date on prevention. Their active participation and willingness to advocate underscore the effectiveness of church settings in health education for Black communities. Preferences for blood-based screenings indicate openness to less invasive options, highlighting the need for tailored interventions. High trust in healthcare providers challenges the narrative of mistrust among African Americans, demonstrating that culturally sensitive, community-focused engagement enhances preventive health participation. The willingness of 30% to become CRC awareness advocates demonstrates strong potential for community-driven health initiatives. Citation Format: Toni M. Jackson, John Onyekaba, Kingsley K. Njoku, Ankita Shah, Carrie Smith, Chima Amadi, Kapil Chandora, Daniela Ortegasantori, Hafsa Gundroo, Temitope Tobun, Daniel Hommes, Julia Liu. The Church Study: Bridging the gap in colorectal cancer screening of Black patients abstract. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33 (9 Suppl): Abstract nr A133.