Colorectal cancer diagnoses dropped significantly during and shortly after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, but late-stage diagnoses eventually exceeded expectations in Puerto Rico, according to a recent analysis. The study suggests that limited access to cancer screening services due to these disasters likely hindered timely CRC diagnoses.
The researchers analyzed data from the Puerto Rico Central Cancer Registry from 2012-2021. They found that in the month after the hurricanes struck, only 82 cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed instead of the expected 161.4. A similar decline was observed following the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in April 2020.
However, by the end of the study, the estimated numbers of patients with early-stage CRC and those aged 50-75 years did not reach expected numbers. In contrast, late-stage CRC cases and those outside the recommended screening age range exceeded expectations.
The findings highlight the need for policies that strengthen health care systems in Puerto Rico and other regions facing similar challenges. The researchers hope to start a conversation about long-term solutions to improve cancer care coordination, reduce health disparities, and ensure continued access to care, ultimately aiming to help people live longer, healthier lives.
A study published by Wiley online in the peer-reviewed journal CANCER found that disasters can lead to late diagnoses, interruptions in treatment, and worsening survival and health outcomes for patients. The researchers emphasize the importance of developing more adaptable and resilient strategies to ensure the continuity of essential care during crises.
Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250414/Limited-health-care-access-during-disasters-may-hinder-timely-colorectal-cancer-diagnoses.aspx