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New Guidelines Recommend Lowering

the Age for Colorectal Cancer Screening

by Paul Hiltz, NCH President & CEO
olorectal cancer (CRC) is the third- However, with new evidence, screening is now recommended
leading cause of cancer-related starting at age 45 for those at average risk. Early detection through
Cdeaths among men and the fourth methods such as colonoscopy, CT colonoscopy, fecal or DNA
among women in the United States. When stool testing, or sigmoidoscopy can identify and often remove
considered together, CRC is the second pre-cancerous polyps before they become malignant, significantly
leading cause of cancer deaths nationwide. improving outcomes.
In 2021, the United States Preventative The rates of CRC diagnosis in older adults have dropped
Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the U.S. significantly, largely due to increased screening. However, we’ve
Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal observed a one to two percent annual increase in CRC cases
Cancer (USMSTF) updated their guidelines, recommending among adults under 50 since the mid-1990s.
that CRC screenings begin at the age of 45. This shift reflects an In response to these findings, the American Cancer Society
urgent response to the rising incidence of CRC among younger (ACS) first recommended lowering the screening age in 2018, with
adults. USPSTF and USMSTF aligning with their recommendations
We have improved our screening rates at Naples in 2021. Factors such as diet, lifestyle, physical inactivity, and
Comprehensive Health (NCH) with the new electronic health environmental influences are believed to contribute to the rise in
records system, Epic, and with the integration of Exact Sciences CRC cases among younger populations.
Corp, maker of the Cologuard® test which can be ordered from The NCH gastroenterology department has experienced
an NCH provider and mailed directly to your home. significant expansion, employing cutting-edge technology and a
While advancements in screening have led to a decline in team of skilled providers to deliver quality care to patients at risk
CRC rates among older adults, a concerning trend has emerged; of colorectal cancer.
the risk of developing CRC at a younger age is on the rise. This A physician referral is required to make an appointment with
has prompted the medical community to take decisive action. one of our expert Gastroenterologists.
Previously, guidelines advised individuals without a family For more information, please visit NCHmd.org
history or significant risk factors to begin screening at age 50.

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