Using a cross-sectoral partnership to improve colorectal cancer screening and follow-up among African Americans in the United States: A protocol and preliminary results

Improving colorectal cancer (CRC) screening through cross-sector partnerships using nontraditional public service sites may reduce disparities among African Americans. This study evaluated the impact of the Black Equity, Access, and Testing for Cancer (BEAT Cancer) program on screening uptake among African American adults reached through these partnerships. From October 2023 to April 2024, racially concordant community health workers approached African American adults at the County Treasurer's Office and Department of Motor Vehicles in Omaha, Nebraska. Of 3563 individuals approached, 596 were eligible, and 336 enrolled (9.4%). Participants received a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit, an educational brochure, text/phone reminders, and navigation support. Outcomes included FIT return, test positivity, and completion of follow-up colonoscopy after abnormal results. Among 336 enrolled participants, the mean age was 57 years; 56.8% were male, and 44.9% reported not having a primary care provider. Overall, 118 (35.1%) returned the FIT kit for testing; 21 (17.9%) had abnormal results, and 8 of 21 (38.1%) completed follow-up colonoscopy. The BEAT Cancer program demonstrated initial promise in CRC screening completion among African American adults with limited access to care, highlighting the potential of cross-sector collaborations with nontraditional public service settings to increase CRC screening uptake.