Americans Are Prioritizing Housework Over Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is rising at an alarming rate, particularly among younger adults, yet daily responsibilities like laundry, child care and work chores are taking priority over preventive health care, putting lives at risk. A new survey commissioned by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and conducted by Wakefield Research highlights the extent of this issue. It found that more than half of U.S. adults (51 percent) prioritize household tasks over getting screened. Even more striking, 69 percent of respondents said they would rather file their taxes than undergo a colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer, which includes both colon and rectal cancers, has become the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50 and the second-leading cause in women, according to the American Cancer Society. While lifestyle and environmental factors are contributing to this alarming rise, colorectal cancer is also one of the most preventable cancers. However, 58 percent of people remain unaware of this fact. With rates climbing, especially in younger populations, experts stress the importance of early detection. But why are so many people avoiding screenings—and what can be done to change that?

The Importance of Early Screening

Dr. Joshua Raff, the director of the Digestive Cancer Program at White Plains Hospital in New York, spoke to Newsweek and explained that screenings are especially important for those who have no symptoms and feel fine. He said: "The goal of screening is to find a disease at an earlier—and more easily treatable—stage than if that person waited for symptoms to occur." The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. However, those who present symptoms like changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool and abdominal pain should seek medical advice. Screening detects colorectal cancer early, reducing the likelihood of lymph node spread and the need for chemotherapy. The survey found that 57 percent are unaware that these screenings can prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps. If Americans knew this, 98 percent reported they would be more likely to undergo screening. "As more young people are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer compared with years past, the role of screening for colorectal cancer becomes even more important," said Raff.

Why Are People Missing Colorectal Cancer Screenings?

Raff told Newsweek: "People don't 'want' to have a screening colonoscopy. Many people may feel uncomfortable talking about the preparation or that part of their body. "But here's the thing: Cancer doesn't care. It simply does not care about our feelings or our comfort. It does what it wants, and it is happening more and more in young people than ever before. Don't wait for symptoms. If you are eligible for colorectal cancer screening, then 'get over it!' and take those steps to be a responsible adult, for you and your family." Fear prevents 36 percent of unscreened adults from getting tested, but the daily grind appears to be a major barrier to screening. Close to one in five people (18 percent) whose doctor recommended they get screened opt not to do so. Among these adults, 72 percent admit to letting everyday tasks keep them from getting these important health tests. Parents, in particular, struggle to prioritize their own health, with 60 percent admitting that daily responsibilities prevent them from getting screened, compared to 46 percent of nonparents.

Peer Pressure Can Help Prevention

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance exclusively shared with Newsweek that peer influence plays a significant role in encouraging screenings. Learning that a friend had a colonoscopy would motivate nearly one in five adults (19 percent) to get screened themselves. Surprisingly, men (24 percent) were more likely than women (15 percent) to be persuaded by a friend's experience. Additionally, 13 percent of adults said having a friend go through the prep process with them would make a significant difference in their decision to get screened. A personal nudge from a loved one proved even more impactful, with 34 percent of adults saying it would convince them to get a colonoscopy. This includes 39 percent of those who had previously ignored their doctor's recommendation to undergo screening. Is there a health issue that's worrying you? Let us know via health@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.