Exploring the influence of rural residence on uptake of organized cancer screening – A systematic review of international literature. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walji, Lauren T.; Murchie, Peter; Lip, Gerald; Speirs, Valerie; Iversen, Lisa
• Is Part Of: Cancer epidemiology. Volume 74(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Cancer -- Screening -- Epidemiology -- Geographic -- Review; Cancer -- Epidemiology -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; Carcinogenesis -- Periodicals; 616.994005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2021.101995
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1877-7821

Abstract

Highlights: We reviewed global studies comparing rural/urban cancer screening uptake. Rural cancer screening uptake appears to be lower in high income countries. Rural health impediments require further focus for screening programme planning. Abstract: Lower screening uptake could impact cancer survival in rural areas. This systematic review sought studies comparing rural/urban uptake of colorectal, cervical and breast cancer screening in high income countries. Relevant studies (n = 50) were identified systematically by searching Medline, EMBASE and CINAHL. Narrative synthesis found that screening uptake for all three cancers was generally lower in rural areas. In meta-analysis, colorectal cancer screening uptake (OR 0.66, 95 % CI = 0.50−0.87, I 2 = 85 %) was significantly lower for rural dwellers than their urban counterparts. The meta-analysis found no relationship between uptake of breast cancer screening and rural versus urban residency (OR 0.93, 95 % CI = 0.80–1.09, I 2 = 86 %). However, it is important to note the limitation of the significant statistical heterogeneity found which demonstrates the lack of consistency between the few studies eligible for inclusion in the meta-analyses. Cancer screening uptake is apparently lower for rural dwellers which may contribute to poorer survival. National screening programmes should consider geography in planning.