Cancer Screening Rates Returning to Pre-Pandemic Levels

This report examines cancer screening rates for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, specifically analyzing trends from March 2019 to February 2023. It highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these screening rates, noting a significant decline during the pandemic years, particularly in 2020. The study utilizes claims data from Elevance Health to assess whether screening rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels by the end of February 2023. The findings indicate that while there was a rebound in screening rates, they varied by cancer type and patient demographics. For instance, individuals with chronic conditions exhibited higher screening rates compared to those without. The report also details the screening recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and discusses the implications of these trends on cancer detection and treatment. Overall, the analysis underscores the importance of timely cancer screenings in preventing delays in diagnosis and treatment.