Unscreened: One-Third of Eligible Adults in WV Not Getting Colorectal Cancer Checks, CDC Says

Why it matters locally: This national report from the CDC is particularly concerning for West Virginia, given our state's existing health challenges. With a population of 1.77 million, a significant portion of West Virginians aged 50-75 are likely forgoing potentially life-saving colorectal cancer screenings. This is worrying because West Virginia already faces higher rates of certain cancers compared to the national average, and often struggles with healthcare access due to rural environments and socioeconomic factors. Low screening rates could lead to later-stage diagnoses, increasing the burden on our healthcare system and negatively impacting the health and well-being of our residents.

---

Atlanta -- Roughly one in three adults between the ages of 50 and 75 have not undergone screening for colorectal cancer as advised by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), according to a recent Vital Signs report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC report highlights a disparity between recommended preventative measures and actual screening rates. While research indicates the efficacy of colorectal cancer screenings in saving lives, the CDC found that a substantial proportion of the eligible population remains unscreened. The USPSTF recommends regular colorectal cancer screening for adults in the specified age range, emphasizing that early detection and intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes. The CDC's findings suggest a need for increased awareness and improved access to screening services to address this public health concern. The report did not detail the reasons behind the low screening rates.