Colorectal Cancer Screening of Californian Adults of Mexican Origin as a Function of Acculturation

Background Californian Latinos have lower rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening compared to non-Latino whites, which may account in part for disparities in colorectal incidence trends. Methods Participants, 603 Mexican-American men and 893 women aged 50 and older who had not been diagnosed with colon cancer, reported CRC screening behavior on the 2005 California Health Interview Survey. A 7-item acculturation index (English language use/proficiency, nativity, citizenship, and years living in the U.S.) was developed. A logistic regression model predicted CRC screening as a function of acculturation. Results Higher acculturated Mexican-Americans were 3–4 times more likely to have had both fecal occult blood test and endoscopic CRC screening. Lower acculturated Mexican men and women were twice as likely to not have any CRC screening. Discussion Colorectal screening is effective in preventing cancer; educational and outreach efforts and efforts to decrease language barriers among lower-acculturated Mexican-Americans should be intensified.