Patterns and Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors Among African Immigrants in the United States: An Integrative Review
Disciplines
Community Health | Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Nursing | Oncology
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in the United States. Early detection through routine screening significantly improves survival rates. However, African immigrants often exhibit lower CRC screening rates compared to other populations due to unique cultural, socioeconomic, and systemic factors. Understanding both the patterns and predictors of screening behaviors within this population is vital for reducing disparities. This integrative review aims to explore the patterns and predictors of CRC screening behaviors among African immigrants in the United States to identify barriers, facilitators, and opportunities for intervention. An integrative review framework was used to synthesize quantitative and qualitative research studies. Databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase were systematically searched for studies published between 2010 and 2024. Search terms included "colorectal cancer screening," "African immigrants," "predictors," "screening behaviors," and "United States." Articles were included if they focused on CRC screening in African immigrants, identified factors influencing screening behaviors, and were peer-reviewed. A thematic analysis was conducted to extract and categorize key patterns and predictors. The review identified low CRC screening rates among African immigrants, often influenced by factors such as limited awareness, healthcare access, cultural beliefs, and language barriers. Predictors of screening included higher socioeconomic status, health insurance coverage, regular interaction with healthcare providers, and acculturation. Facilitators such as culturally tailored interventions, faith-based initiatives, and community health outreach programs showed promise in promoting screening. Gender and educational attainment were also significant predictors, with women and individuals with higher education levels more likely to engage in CRC screening. The findings suggest a need for comprehensive strategies addressing both systemic and individual-level barriers to CRC screening. Healthcare providers should prioritize culturally sensitive communication, expand access to affordable screening services, and collaborate with community organizations to enhance awareness. Future interventions should leverage identified predictors to develop targeted education and outreach programs. Understanding the patterns and predictors of CRC screening behaviors among African immigrants is critical for designing effective interventions. By addressing specific barriers and leveraging facilitators, healthcare systems can improve CRC screening uptake, ultimately reducing disparities and advancing health equity within this underserved population.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
WCHHS - Nursing
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Chinomso Nwozichi
Patterns and Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors Among African Immigrants in the United States: An Integrative Review
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in the United States. Early detection through routine screening significantly improves survival rates. However, African immigrants often exhibit lower CRC screening rates compared to other populations due to unique cultural, socioeconomic, and systemic factors. Understanding both the patterns and predictors of screening behaviors within this population is vital for reducing disparities. This integrative review aims to explore the patterns and predictors of CRC screening behaviors among African immigrants in the United States to identify barriers, facilitators, and opportunities for intervention. An integrative review framework was used to synthesize quantitative and qualitative research studies. Databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase were systematically searched for studies published between 2010 and 2024. Search terms included "colorectal cancer screening," "African immigrants," "predictors," "screening behaviors," and "United States." Articles were included if they focused on CRC screening in African immigrants, identified factors influencing screening behaviors, and were peer-reviewed. A thematic analysis was conducted to extract and categorize key patterns and predictors. The review identified low CRC screening rates among African immigrants, often influenced by factors such as limited awareness, healthcare access, cultural beliefs, and language barriers. Predictors of screening included higher socioeconomic status, health insurance coverage, regular interaction with healthcare providers, and acculturation. Facilitators such as culturally tailored interventions, faith-based initiatives, and community health outreach programs showed promise in promoting screening. Gender and educational attainment were also significant predictors, with women and individuals with higher education levels more likely to engage in CRC screening. The findings suggest a need for comprehensive strategies addressing both systemic and individual-level barriers to CRC screening. Healthcare providers should prioritize culturally sensitive communication, expand access to affordable screening services, and collaborate with community organizations to enhance awareness. Future interventions should leverage identified predictors to develop targeted education and outreach programs. Understanding the patterns and predictors of CRC screening behaviors among African immigrants is critical for designing effective interventions. By addressing specific barriers and leveraging facilitators, healthcare systems can improve CRC screening uptake, ultimately reducing disparities and advancing health equity within this underserved population.