California's CCCP Colorectal Cancer Additional Program Proposal

Project Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in California among both men and women, and is the third most common cause of cancer-related death for each sex.¹ The overall five-year survival rate for CRC is 63%, much lower than the rates for breast (87%) or prostate (97%) cancer.¹ The good news is that several research studies have demonstrated that CRC screening improves outcomes and reduces mortality.³

In response to this data and research, California's Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (CCCP) aims to increase CRC screening rates among women, Asian and Pacific Islanders, African Americans, Latinos and those of low-income and increase early stage diagnoses by continuing their CRC Additional Program over the next five-year funding cycle.CRC Program activities will focus on conducting healthcare provider (HCP) trainings, for providers who primarily serve the populations mentioned above, on current CRC screening recommendations.

During Year 1, the Program will partner with the University of California, Davis Medical Center to train medical students and residents, focusing specifically on OB/GYN residents, in an effort to raise CRC screening rates among CA women. UCDMC serves a primarily under/uninsured population base, allowing us to continue reaching low-income and disparate populations, including Asian Americans, African Americans, and Latinos.

The CRC Program will also encourage community-based organizations throughout CA to implement similar evidence-based HCP trainings at the local level by issuing 3-4 competitive awards per year. In Years 2-5, the Program will further expand these HCP trainings to the rural regions of CA, utilizing UCDMC's telemedicine capabilities, incorporate additional training methods and strategies (e.g., Screen the Screener Programs, educating physicians during Grand Rounds, etc.) and continue fostering existing CRC partnerships.