Abstract 1313: Racial disparities in colorectal cancer incidence across US ethnic groups: A comprehensive analysis

Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent global cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Racial disparities in CRC within the United States pose a significant public health concern, affecting incidence, mortality rates, and screening rates. This study investigates the impact of racial disparities on CRC incidence across various US states, utilizing CRC data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Analysis with GraphPad Prism 5 software and Student's t-test reveals a consistent trend of higher CRC incidence in males compared to females, irrespective of ethnicity. Notably, the Black and American Indian ethnic groups demonstrate the highest CRC incidences among all races, especially in individuals aged 65 and above. Certain states, including Iowa and Mississippi for Black populations, and Alaska, Minnesota, Montana, Oklahoma, and South Dakota for American Indian populations, exhibit significantly elevated CRC incidences compared to the national average. County-specific analysis in Alabama reveals varying CRC incidence rates across ethnic groups, with higher rates in specific counties, such as Clarke County for Black males. Limited reports for American Indian, Asian Pacific, and Hispanic ethnic groups indicate potential disparities in access to testing, awareness, and funding for CRC detection and prevention. This study concludes that Black and American Indian males and females experience a higher incidence of colorectal cancer, possibly influenced by genetic factors or other variables contributing to CRC development. The observed disparities are multifaceted, arising from a combination of social, economic, and healthcare system factors. Addressing these complexities is crucial for mitigating CRC disparities and promoting equitable healthcare access and outcomes. Additional research, including molecular screening studies, is essential to substantiate disparities in cancer-related health and enhance public health and cancer awareness within the community. Key Words: Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Health Care, Racial Disparities Citation Format: Anathbandhu Chaudhuri, Rosianna Gray. Racial disparities in colorectal cancer incidence across US ethnic groups: A comprehensive analysis abstract. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts) ; 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84 (6Suppl): Abstract nr 1313.