Can a text nudge more people to get screened for colon cancer?
NCT ID NCT02843217
First seen Sep 11, 2026 ยท Last updated Sep 11, 2026
Summary
Researchers at Washington State University are testing whether tailored digital messages can increase colorectal cancer screening among American Indian and Alaska Native adults aged 50 to 75. The trial compares screening rates between people who receive the messages and those who receive usual care. The goal is to see if a simple, low-cost messaging program can help more people get screened for a cancer that is easier to treat when caught early.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a targeted digital messaging program to encourage colorectal cancer screening
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a low-cost way to raise colorectal cancer screening rates in American Indian and Alaska Native communities and catch cancers earlier.
- What could go wrong
- Messages alone may not overcome barriers like access, transportation, or mistrust of the health system. The trial measures screening uptake, not whether it saves lives.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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1,458 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Sep 2010
- Finished
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Aug 2015
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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50 to 75 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * AI/AN * Age 50-75 * Active clinical patient Exclusion Criteria: * Not AI/AN
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Washington State University
Pullman, Washington, 99164-4820, United States
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