Mississippi leads nation in colorectal cancer cases and deaths

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – Mississippi again tops the list in a concerning health issue -colorectal cancer. T

he medical community urges screenings for what they call a preventable disease.

Physicians and advocates gathered at the Capitol on Monday to raise the alarm about recent findings.

According to medical professionals, Mississippi has the highest rates of colorectal cancer cases and deaths in the nation.

Screenings for the disease have declined since the recommended screening age was lowered to 45 in 2021.

“One such cancerous polyp was found during my screening and it was removed, and that essentially prevented a much worse outcome, just that simple test, that simple procedure,” said Gerard Gibert, colon cancer survivor and SuperTalk radio host.

Doctors blame the high number of cases and deaths on a lack of insurance.

Increasing awareness and access to screenings can help save lives and lower the burden of this disease in Mississippi.

“It’s very concerning we’re falling behind in this area,” said Dr. Shannon Orr, M.D. University of Mississippi Medical Center Division Chief of surgical oncology. “I think as a community, as physicians, we need to be out educating our patients, educating physicians about the changes.”

“Go to your doctor for your annual wellness check, listen to what your doctor provider is recommending,” said State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney with the Mississippi State Department of Health. “Don’t be resistant to that screening test. Yes, it’s no fun getting the cleanse, but it will save your life.

The latest research from 2021 indicates Mississippi had 44.86 new colorectal cancer cases and 18.16 deaths per 100,000 residents. Both numbers exceed the national average of 36.5 cases and 12.8 deaths per 100,000.

Mississippi’s colorectal screening rate dropped from 70 percent in 2020 to 62.5 percent in 2022.

An average of more than 630 people die each year from the disease in the state.

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