Acceptability of stool-based DNA colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among Black/African American patients served by a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

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10530 Background: CRC has an increased burden among Black/African American populations in the United States. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, home-based CRC screening options are being used more frequently. We conducted focus groups to understand the acceptability of stool-based DNA testing for CRC screening in this population. Methods: 10 Focus group sessions were conducted at 2 FQHCs in Milwaukee, WI from 06/22/2023-10/30/2023. Participants were paid $40 for participation. Groups were categorized by gender and age (younger [40-50] vs. older [over 50]). Participants were recruited by fliers and direct text from the FQHC. Eligibility was verified by FQHC staff. Each session was 90 minutes, held at the FQHC, and led by the same facilitator. Participants were given an overview of CRC screening tests and shown a video about stool DNA tests before beginning the focus groups. Thematic analysis was carried out using NVivo. Results: Across 10 groups, there were 79 participants, 32 younger (40.5%) and 47 older (59.5%), with 42 males (53.2%) and 37 (46.8%) females. In the overall study population, there was minimal knowledge of one’s risk for CRC, including the concept of average versus high-risk. Also, there was limited awareness of CRC screening options among younger patients and widespread lack of knowledge about stool-based DNA testing. None of the participants had personal experience with stool-based DNA screening. Most participants were open to the idea of stool-based DNA testing for screening. Examination of DNA was not a pervasive concern in the groups. Most preferred colonoscopy as their first-choice screening test. Reasons for colonoscopy preference included: definitive removal of polyps, direct visualization of the colon, increased confidence level in effectiveness, potential longer periods between screenings, and no need for confirmatory evaluation. Conclusions: Study findings reveal that stool-based DNA testing was acceptable among our study population, however, colonoscopy was identified as the preferred screening modality among this population of Black/African American patients served by an FQHC. Given the low awareness/knowledge of screening modalities identified in our study, educational interventions and shared decision making by primary care providers are needed to promote patient awareness of CRC screening options within the population.