Preventing colorectal cancer through early detection

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and significant racial, ethnic, and sociodemographic disparities continue to affect screening rates and survival outcomes.

Launched in 2021 and led by Dr. Rachel Issaka, associate professor (Gastroenterology), the Fred Hutch/UW Medicine Population Health Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Screening Program aims to ensure that colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and follow‑up care are high-quality, equitable, and accessible for all patients.

Since its launch, systemwide screening rates have increased from 62% to 73%, closing more than half of the gap toward the national 80% screening goal. By focusing on outreach to adults ages 45–49, a group experiencing rising cancer incidence, the program has boosted screening rates in this population from 26% to 57%. The team is also initiating a new partnership with HealthPoint Community Health Center to expand access for patients across Washington State.

Learn more in the program’s recent annual report.