Research conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of Olympus has highlighted that Black Americans are 20% more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to succumb to it compared to other demographic groups. This research was based on a survey of 2,027 U.S. adults conducted between Feb. 23 and Feb. 27. Here are the key findings:
- Awareness Gap: Black and Hispanic Americans are less informed than their white counterparts about the recommended age (45) for starting colon cancer screenings.
- Misconceptions: A significant portion of Black and Hispanic Americans mistakenly believe that only high-risk individuals need colon cancer screenings.
- Privacy Concerns: Black and Hispanic Americans are twice as likely as white Americans to prefer keeping their colonoscopy plans private.
- Misunderstanding Screening Standards: Over half of the Black respondents incorrectly believed that at-home stool-based tests are the gold standard for colon cancer screenings, even though colonoscopies hold that distinction.
- Barriers to Colonoscopy: Among Black Americans, the primary barriers to getting a colonoscopy include fear of the procedure, apprehension about the results, and the misconception that they don’t need it.
- Perceived Benefits: A vast majority (85%) of all respondents believe that the health benefits of undergoing a colonoscopy far outweigh the discomfort associated with the procedure.
- General Misconception: 22% of all respondents mistakenly believe that only high-risk individuals require colonoscopies.
These findings underscore the need for increased awareness and education about colon cancer screenings, especially within minority communities.