Patterns of Colorectal Cancer in Texas Counties From 2000 to 2017

Abstract

PURPOSE: Residents living in Texas counties along the United States–Mexico border make up a unique demographic. These counties consist of a large proportion of Hispanic-Latinx people who experience a high rate of health uninsurance and underinsurance, low household income averages, and, as a whole, exhibiting relatively poor health outcomes compared to the US general population. Limited information exists regarding the effects of these characteristics on the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS: Using data from the Texas Department of State Health Service, we calculated that the overall age-adjusted incidence rate (AAIR) of CRC was lower and decreased at a slower rate over time in Texas border counties compared with nonborder counties in Texas. RESULTS: The AAIR of CRC was lower and decreased at a slower rate over time in Texas border counties compared with nonborder counties in Texas. Conversely to other groups analyzed, the AAIR of CRC in individuals age 50-64 years in border counties increased. CONCLUSION: These findings are likely a reflection of less utilization of cancer screening in border counties than in nonborder counties. The increase in AAIR of CRC among individuals age 50-64 years in border counties warrants further investigation.