Accessibility Compliance
1
Date of Award
Spring 5-13-2026
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Department
Nursing
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is widely understood as a potentially devastating diagnosis. Late-stage diagnosis portends a high likelihood of morbidity and mortality, in stark contrast to survival rates for patients whose cancer is diagnosed when localized. Early detection through screening is therefore of critical importance. Black residents of Massachusetts have a higher incidence of colorectal cancer than white residents and are more likely to be diagnosed at stage four. Lower screening rates amongst Black residents represent one of multiple factors leading to worse morbidity and mortality from colorectal cancer. Despite clear recommendations from the US Preventive Services Task Force [USPSTF] that all average-risk adults ages forty-five to seventy-five undergo colorectal cancer screening, adherence to national screening guidelines remains suboptimal (USPSTF, 2021). In an effort to reduce disparities, we must work to understand barriers to screening adherence and aim to address them. This paper will examine these barriers and provide recommendations accordingly. In a review of the literature, text message reminders were found to increase screening uptake. This paper proposes a health policy mandating text message reminders be automatically sent to patients when colorectal cancer screening is due or overdue. This policy intervention aims to increase screening adherence amongst Black residents of Massachusetts, with the overarching goal of improving colorectal cancer outcomes in Massachusetts and decreasing disparities between Black and white residents.
Recommended Citation
Ritterband, Lauren R., "An Overdue Message: Increasing Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates Among Black Residents of Massachusetts" (2026). Capstones. 19.
https://scholarworks.umb.edu/capstones/19
Comments
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