Facilitating factors for colorectal cancer screening.

Background: In this retrospective study, we examined factors that facilitated receipt of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in a sample of low-income, predominantly African Americans participating in a tailored telephone education intervention.

Methods: A total of 61 individuals who received CRC screening were matched on age and sex with 61 individuals who had not received screening. Using records collected as part of the intervention, we identified facilitating factors and compared them between groups.

Results: We identified 8 facilitating factors, of which there were significant bivariate relationships with 6 factors. These 6 factors were stated familiarity with CRC test, seemed to only need reminder calls, seemed ready to screen, primary care physician (PCP) encouraged CRC screening, had an upcoming PCP appointment, and being prevention oriented.

Conclusions: Identifying facilitating factors in those who receive screening may lead to insights about what factors need to be cultivated in those who do not receive screening.