Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer diagnosed and is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Although screening rates have been increasing, about 70% of eligible adults aged 45-75 are up to date with screening. In Texas, that rate is about 61%, and among Federally Qualified Health Centers in Texas the CRC screening rate is 36%.

Limited resources and funding, a lack of coordinated effort, difficult to reach populations, patient-level barriers, and the simple geographic expanse of this state can make increasing CRC screening difficult, despite evidence-based, cost-effective strategies.

CONNECT Overview

The Coordinating Center for Colorectal Cancer Screening across Texas (CONNECT) aims to drive and support colorectal cancer (CRC) screening efforts throughout Texas. Funded by the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) in 2023, CONNECT will serve as a convening entity and central hub of resources, tools, and content expertise accessible by stakeholders across the state. The primary goals of the Coordinating Center include:

• Create a stakeholder network representing all regions and communities in Texas to develop, implement, and disseminate a Texas CRC screening strategic plan;
• Develop infrastructure and resources to support the expansion of evidence-based CRC screening statewide;
• Utilize rigorous evaluation methods and innovative approaches of modeling, geospatial mapping, and cost effectiveness analyses to assess impact and support planning, implementation, and policy development; and
• Accelerate the creation, implementation, and dissemination of CRC screening best practices by priority populations