Research Alert: February 14, 2022

New Fact Sheets on Colorectal and Cervical Cancer Prevention in Rural Health Clinics in South Carolina

Colorectal and Cervical Cancer Prevention in Rural Health Clinics in South Carolina

Patients in rural areas undergo cancer screening less frequently than urban patients with corresponding higher cancer incidence and mortality. This study used a mixed methods design to investigate perceptions and practices regarding cervical and colorectal cancer prevention at Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) in South Carolina. Study results support the need for increased technical and material resources at RHCs to improve uptake of colorectal and cervical cancer screening.

Providers are aware of current cervical and colorectal cancer screening guidelines and follow recommendations based on patient need and guidance from multiple organizations. Providers reported both patient- and provider-level barriers to cancer screening. Additional technical and material resources (e.g., small media, navigation services, electronic health record report customization) should be provided to RHCs to enable the implementation of evidence-based interventions to improve uptake of cervical and colorectal cancer screening.

Additional Resources of Interest:

• More information about the Rural and Minority Health Research Center
• More information from the Rural Health Information Hub's topic guide: Rural Health Clinics