Screening guidelines now recommend colorectal cancer testing beginning at age 45, yet millions of eligible Americans have not been screened.
In 2018, the American Cancer Society lowered the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45 for average-risk Americans. In 2021, the United States Preventive Services Task Force made the same guideline change. This means that colorectal cancer screening is covered by insurance with no out-of-pocket costs for all adults ages 45 and older.
This guideline changed because more and more people under age 50 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Adults born in the 1990s have twice the risk of colon cancer, and four times the risk for rectal cancer, compared to their parents born in the 1950s. Currently, 68 people under the age of 50 are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each day. Unfortunately, only 1 in 5 adults ages 45 to 49 has been screened.
Research is currently underway to better understand the cause of this increase. The reason is still unclear, but it is likely a mix of several factors, including environmental and other personal risk factors.
Who should screen now
It is vitally important for Americans with no family history of colorectal cancer or polyps and who are not experiencing any symptoms to start screening at age 45. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors should talk with their healthcare providers about starting to screen earlier.
The early stages of colorectal cancer often have no warning signs. Most patients report feeling completely healthy. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be in more advanced stages and harder to treat. Screening without symptoms can help find problems early, when the cancer is most treatable.
What screening involves
While there are many screening options available for colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy can help stop cancer before it starts. During a screening colonoscopy, doctors examine the inside of the colon to find and remove small growths called polyps. Removing these polyps stops cancer before it can start.
What if you’re under 45?
Find a primary care doctor and develop a relationship before you may need one. Young people should learn the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer. If something in the body doesn’t feel right, talk about it with your doctor. Ask questions and get the care you need. Don’t wait until age 45 to think about colorectal cancer screening. Talk to your doctor now about your personal risk and which screening option is right for you.
