Colorectal Cancer Screening Capacity in Arizona

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in Arizona. Given that by the year 2030 Arizona is expected to be the second most populated state in the U.S., it is imperative to evaluate whether this state has the colorectal screening capacity to accommodate the growing population.Methods: 338 members of the American College of Gastroenterology were invited to participate. Information for the total number of colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies performed during an average week was ascertained by analyzing 105 surveys. We estimated the current and potential volume of screening procedures.Results: Physicians reported performing 8,717 endoscopic procedures weekly (7,990 colonoscopies and 727 sigmoidoscopies). They reported being able to increase their capacity by an additional 3,183 (36.5%) procedures a week (2,347 colonoscopies and 836 flexible sigmoidoscopies).Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Arizona has the ability to significantly expand its endoscopic capacity.