Colorectal Cancer Screening Age Should Be Lowered to 45, Experts Urge
The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is advocating for a reduction in the recommended age to begin colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45. This call for change comes as new research indicates a significant rise in diagnoses among younger adults, particularly those born after 1980.
Rising Rates in Younger Adults
Individuals born after 1980 are now 2.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of 50 compared to previous generations . Often, these diagnoses occur at a later stage of the disease, potentially impacting treatment outcomes.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer primarily originates in cells lining the colon or rectum . Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Current Screening Methods
The most reliable method for colorectal cancer screening involves stool tests . These tests help identify potential issues before symptoms develop. A colonoscopy is also used when symptoms or screening suggest a problem .
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
Why Lower the Screening Age?
Current screening guidelines do not adequately address the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Lowering the screening age to 45 would allow for earlier detection and potentially improve survival rates. The Canadian Cancer Society is urging provinces and territories to adopt this change , .
Colorectal Cancer Canada’s Role
Colorectal Cancer Canada is a national non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, supporting patients and caregivers, and advocating for improved colorectal cancer care in Canada .