Background

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the US has declined. The decreasing trend is observed in non-Hispanic Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics. However, close analysis of the trends demonstrates that the decline among Hispanics is less than other races/ethnicities. We investigate the burden of CRC in Hispanics living near the U.S.–Mexico border, a subpopulation of Hispanics composed primarily of individuals of Mexican origin.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate and compare incidence rates of CRC in non-Hispanic Whites and Hispanics living in counties along the U.S.–Mexico border.

Methods

Data from the National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute and State Cancer Profiles were analyzed to obtain CRC incidence rates (per 100,000 population) for persons ≥ 50 years of age residing in counties along the U.S.–Mexico border by race (non-Hispanic White and Hispanic) and gender from 2011 to 2015.

Results

Incidence rates of CRC in Hispanic men ≥ 50 years of age, living in counties along the U.S.–Mexico border, were higher than the national average for Hispanic men of similar age. In contrast, the incidence of CRC declined or remained stable in non-Hispanic Whites and women.

Conclusions

Our study unveils a significant disparity in CRC incidence among Hispanics living near the U.S.–Mexico border, disproportionally affecting men ≥ 50 years of age. Socioeconomic and cultural/lifestyle factors are likely contributing to these disparities.

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