ASSOCIATION OF MARITAL STATUS AND COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING IN THE UNITED STATES

Abstract

Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is estimated to be the third most common malignancy worldwide, with 945,000 new cases every year and responsible for 492,000 deaths annually. Despite evidence that it decreases mortality, CRC screening in the United States remains underutilized. Marital status has been implicated in some European studies as a factor affecting CRC screening participation, but the effect of marital status on CRC screening participation in the US population is unknown. In this study, we aim to identify the association between marital status and participation in CRC screening in the United States. Study Design: This is a retrospective data analysis of the 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey (BRFSS). Methods: The population studied included 239,300 participants, aged 50 to 75, who completed the 2010 BRFSS. Individuals were selected randomly using disproportionate stratified random sampling. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between colorectal screening status and marital status. Survey stratum and weight were taken into consideration to correct bias. Results: Individuals who were divorced or separated (OR= 0.92, 95% CI= 0.88-0.97), never-married (OR=0.86; 95% CI= 0.80-0.93), or widowed (OR=0.80, 95% CI= 0.75-0.85]) were less likely to have met CRC screening guidelines compared to married individuals or members of unmarried couples Conclusions: This study suggests that individuals living in the United States who are married or are members of an unmarried couple are more likely to be screened for CRC compared to other marital status groups. Public health interventions are needed to promote CRC screening participation in these groups.