TITLE:
Epidemiological Characteristics and Risk Factor Associations of Colorectal Cancer in a Community Health Setting in the Appalachian Region (2020-2024)
AUTHORS:
Jasneet Gill, Amukta Palakurthi, Hunter Brady, Rahul Kapil, Suhail Sapkota, Chimezie Mbachi
KEYWORDS:
Colorectal Cancer, Appalachia, Rural Health, Cancer Epidemiology, Behavioral Risk Factors, Smoking, Alcohol Use, Obesity, Health Disparities, Community Health, Cancer Registry, Preventive Screening
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.16 No.2,
May
9,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) disproportionately affects rural populations in the United States, particularly those residing in the Appalachian region. Objective: This paper aims to examine demographic characteristics and behavioral risk factors associated with CRC in an Appalachian community health setting. Methods: A retrospective analysis of cancer registry data was conducted for CRC patients diagnosed between 2020 and 2024. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to evaluate associations between CRC and selected risk factors. Results: Smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and family history of cancer were significantly associated with increased CRC risk. Conclusion: Region-specific prevention strategies addressing modifiable risk factors and screening access are urgently needed in Appalachian communities.