RESUMEN
Background and study aims: Arab-Americans [ArA] in Michigan, USA had the lowest colorectal cancer screening [CRCS] in 2008 compared to the state's general population [45.6% vs. 60.8%]. The adherence rate and barriers to CRCS have been identified in a previous study; however, these differences have been not examined among ArA from different countries of origin
Patients and methods: Community-based study through a survey filled by 130 Arab-Americans aged >/= 50 years. Demographic information and information about CRC screening knowledge were obtained. Responses were compared between the two largest population groups [Lebanese and Yemenis]
Results: The majority of the participants [80%] were from Lebanon [52.3%] and Yemen [27.7%]. Majority of the Yemenis group have never been screened for CRC [72.2% vs. 27.9%, p < 0.001]. Majority of the unscreened Yemenis were males [100% vs. 63.2%, p = 0.002]. Both unscreened groups had similar length of residence in U.S., citizenship status, education level, health insurance and access to primary care physicians. Unscreened Lebanese had a higher family history of CRCS [31.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.002]. The most common reported barrier for both groups was the misconception that CRCS is not necessary [62% for Yemenis and 42% for Lebanese, p = 0.197]. Unscreened Yemenis were more unaware about CRCS [46% vs. 11%, p = 0.002]
Conclusion: CRC screening rates vary among Arab-Americans from different countries of origin. Physicians should consider the country of origin when recommending CRC screening to Arab-Americans