Regional trends in colorectal cancer mortality in people aged 45-84 years in the US, 1999-2022.

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening via colonoscopy is now advised for most adults beginning at age 45 years, an update from the earlier recommendation of age 50 years. With the increase in CRC screening rates, it is crucial to examine how mortality rates have changed over time. The aim of this study is to identify trends and regional differences in CRC mortality over the last two decades, specifically in individuals within the CRC recommended screening age group.

Methods: This study used the Center for Disease Control's Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) system to collect data on CRC mortality for people ages 45-84 years in the United States from 1999-2022.

Results: During the study period, the overall age-adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) for CRC decreased across all census regions. The Midwest consistently had the highest AAMR, while the West had the lowest. Among genders, males in the Northeast had the highest rates, whereas females in the West had the lowest. Black or African Americans in the Midwest experienced the highest AAMR among racial groups, while Asian or Pacific Islanders in the Midwest had the lowest AAMR.

Conclusions: The mortality rate of CRC has been decreasing since 1999, but differences between regional groups have persisted. Disparities in outcomes still exist, showing that vulnerable subgroups require targeted interventions such as improved screening and follow-up access to increase early-stage diagnoses and potential for curative treatments.