Improving colorectal cancer screening using behavioral economics
Behavioral Economic Approaches for Population-based Colorectal Cancer Screening
This study is looking to help more people get screened for colorectal cancer by trying out different ways to encourage both doctors and patients, and it will involve about 20,000 patients who are due for screening at 30 different primary care clinics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000832 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to increase colorectal cancer screening rates by applying behavioral economic principles. It will evaluate a multi-level intervention that includes clinician-directed nudges through electronic health records and direct outreach to patients. The study will compare the effectiveness of offering colonoscopy only versus a sequential choice of colonoscopy followed by a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for those who decline. Conducted at 30 diverse primary care practices, the trial will involve approximately 20,000 average-risk patients who are overdue for screening.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are average-risk adults who are overdue for colorectal cancer screening.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overdue for screening or those with a high risk of colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase colorectal cancer screening rates, leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral economic approaches can effectively improve health screening rates, suggesting potential success for this intervention.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehta, Shivan Jatin — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Mehta, Shivan Jatin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.