CT colonography screening remains widely underutilized

Although computed tomography colonography (CTC) screening is a quick, noninvasive and accurate method to screen for colorectal cancer, new data suggests that the tool is yet to be widely utilized. 

Based on the results of a survey completed by more than 13,000 respondents who were eligible for the cancer screening, less than 2% reported undergoing CTC. While the utilization rates did appear to steadily increase over the last decade, they still lagged behind expectations. 

“CTC is a minimally invasive screening examination with high sensitivity for the detection of colonic polyps,” corresponding author Brandon O’Connor, with the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine in San Antonio, Texas, and co-authors explained.  “Despite the proven benefits, CTC utilization remains low, and there is limited information about participation rates among underrepresented minority communities and the effects of sociodemographic factors on CTC utilization.” 

The team noted colorectal cancer mortality rates in racial and ethnic minority groups, citing prior research showing these subpopulations less likely to undergo screening compared to white and non-Hispanic individuals. However, the results of the survey suggest Hispanic and Black individuals are more likely to complete CTC screening than their white peers. 

“These results suggest that expanding access to CTC may represent a valid and potentially more accepted method to increase CRC screening rates for racial and ethnic minorities and reduce CRC disparities,” the authors wrote.