Family history of cancer and utilization of prostate, colorectal and skin cancer screening tests in U.S. men

Background: For cancers related to genetic factors, screening may be particularly important for individuals who have a family history of the disease. This study examined whether men with a family history of cancer were more likely to utilize prostate, colorectal or skin cancer screenings compared to those without a family history. Methods: The data for this study came from male respondents who participated in the 2000 National Health Interview Survey. The age range of the study subjects and the definitions of cancer screening were determined based on the American Cancer Society recommendations on cancer screening. Results: Men who had a family history of colorectal cancer were twice more likely to utilize colorectal cancer screening than men without a family history of the disease. Compared to men without a family history of prostate cancer, men with a family history were more likely to undergo a PSA examination. The association of family history with colorectal and prostate cancer screening was stronger among younger men. Conclusions: Family history of cancer was highly associated with colorectal and prostate cancer screening examinations in U.S. men. This may reflect more physicians' recommendations and a higher motivation to get a screening test for men with a family history of cancer.