Rural Colorado Faces Colorectal Cancer Screening Disparities

$53,000 deaths this year — that's the estimated toll of colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. This number is particularly concerning for rural Colorado, where screening rates lag behind urban areas. Dr. Daniel Langer, a gastroenterologist at UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center, emphasizes the importance of early detection: "Educate yourself, talk to your doctor and don’t delay taking advantage of these valuable medical tools."

Colorectal cancer is the second-most common cause of cancer deaths, with estimated new cases in 2026 reaching 108,860 for colon cancer and 49,990 for rectal cancer. While the number of deaths from colorectal cancer has declined for older adults due to increased screening, a different trend emerges for people under 55 — their mortality rate has increased by about 1 percent per year for the past 25 years.

National screening guidelines now recommend that individuals with no risk factors should have their first colonoscopy at age 45, not 50. Those with risk factors, such as family history, should start screening earlier, often at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the age at which their first-degree family member was diagnosed. But it's not just about age, people of all ages need to be aware of potential symptoms like changes in bowel habits, unintentional weight loss, and blood in stool.

A colonoscopy is the most common and reliable test, providing up to 10 years of protection. Dr. Langer calls it the "gold standard" because it not only detects cancer early but also allows for the removal of pre-cancerous polyps. Other, less invasive tests like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or DNA and RNA tests can be done at home, but if they detect anything unusual, a colonoscopy is still necessary.

The disparity in screening rates between rural and urban areas is a concern. Rural areas like Moffat, Rio Blanco, and Garfield counties have limited access to healthcare facilities and specialists, making it harder for residents to get screened. This is particularly troubling given the higher incidence of colorectal cancer in these areas. Make no mistake; early detection is key. The decline in mortality from colorectal cancer in areas where screening is more prevalent demonstrates the effectiveness of early detection. Locals must take advantage of available screening methods, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. The short version: get screened, and get screened early.

In rural Colorado, the lack of awareness and limited access to healthcare facilities contribute to lower screening rates. This is a problem that needs to be addressed, and local medical professionals are urging residents to take action. Dr. Langer emphasizes that several screening methods are available to make a huge difference to your health. Folks around here need to understand the importance of colorectal cancer screening and take steps to prioritize their health. The numbers are stark - 53,000 deaths this year, and a growing incidence among younger people. Read that again: 53,000 deaths. This is not just a public health issue; it's a personal one. Neighbors, friends, and family members are all at risk. The community needs to come together to raise awareness and increase access to screening. This will require effort and resources, but the payoff is worth it: lives saved, and a healthier community. Worth watching is how local healthcare providers and organizations respond to this challenge. Will they increase access to screening facilities and specialists? Will they launch public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the importance of early detection? The answers to these questions will be crucial in addressing the disparity in screening rates and saving lives. For now, the message is clear: get screened, and get screened early. Don't wait until it's too late. Take control of your health, and urge your loved ones to do the same. This is not a problem that can be solved overnight, but with collective effort and awareness, rural Colorado can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer and save lives. The fact remains: early detection is key, and individuals and the community must take action.