Colon cancer is the third most diagnosed type of cancer in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Unfortunately, many people go undiagnosed and untreated due to their hesitation about the colonoscopy screening procedure.
During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a flexible tube with a tiny camera to examine the inside of the colon to identify and remove precancerous growths, called polyps, and look for signs of cancer.
A native of Venezuela, Nowikov Cedeño understands the importance of screening for colorectal cancer. While living abroad, a routine colonoscopy uncovered abnormalities. In the U.S., Cedeño participated in a MedStar Health study focused on helping health clinics increase screening among Black and Hispanic individuals.
A key component of the study is the guidance of a patient navigator, who can help break down barriers to care, such as fear of discomfort, embarrassment, lack of transportation, or English as a second language.
Hannah Arem, PhD, scientific director for implementation science, MedStar Health Research Institute, is the study's principal investigator.
“We know that patient navigation works,” she says. “This study is geared toward MedStar Health clinics that want to increase their colorectal cancer screening rates and reduce the disparities in who is being screened.”
Researchers will identify how patient navigation programs work best within different populations and provide counsel on implementing them across the system.
“It was a simple process thanks to all the guidance I received before the procedure,” Cedeño says.
Cedeño’s patient navigator, Tiara Hill, created a positive experience, inspiring him to encourage his wife, Luisa Marquez, to participate in the program and have her first colonoscopy.
“I assisted by scheduling their gastroenterologist consultations, sending them appointment reminders, helping them to communicate with their providers, offering support and motivation through the entire colorectal screening process, and offering translation services for our conversations,” Tiara says.
As many patients experience their first colonoscopy, one of Tiara’s most important responsibilities is educating them about bowel preparation, requirements, and dietary restrictions. Preparation will help ensure a successful procedure.
Cedeño echoes the importance and advises others to follow the restrictions.
“Sometimes people make the mistake of eating whatever they want. I know people who have done it, and it hasn’t gone well,” he says.
Tiara explains, “The procedure can take longer to complete, and the patient may have more discomfort if the provider has to move around the presence of stool in their colon.”
In most cases when a patient hasn’t followed the restrictions, the procedure will be canceled, and the scheduling and preparation process must be repeated. Sadly, it is another opportunity for a patient to fall through the cracks.
By the end of the five-year study, 15 participating MedStar Health clinics will have established patient navigation programs, helping to reduce racial disparities in colorectal cancer screening, improve early detection and foster community champions who advocate for the importance of preventive care.
Supporting patients through navigation is more than just a clinical service. It is a commitment to equity and community health.
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