Tests for fertility or breast cancer can now be conducted from home. Colorectal cancer screenings not so much.
In the USA, only 40-55% of Hispanic adults show for appointments, with women more likely to attend than men.
The lack of early diagnosis leads to a disproportionately high death rate for colorectal cancer in Hispanic individuals.
Now, a Rhode Island medical centre has adopted a new strategy to encourage its Hispanic population to complete colonoscopies.
Patients were contacted in their native language, first by letter, then by telephone. Sympathetic callers helped patients organise visits and undertake preparations prior to screening.
Additional transport and language issues on site were resolved.
Within 28 months, 85% of adults completed colonoscopies, men and women alike.
