Colorectal Cancer Screenings Rise After Age Change

Lowering the recommended age for colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45 has resulted in screening rates among US adults aged 45 to 49 rising from about 21% in 2019 to over 33% by 2023, with early-stage diagnoses nearly doubling between 2019 and 2022. This increase is largely attributed to new guidelines from the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force, which have enabled earlier detection and treatment of asymptomatic cases. Experts note that despite these gains, the broader rise in colorectal cancer incidence among younger adults began before the guideline change and is likely influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. Disparities in access to screening persist, especially among the uninsured and less educated. Mailed stool test kits are highlighted as a promising strategy to further boost participation. Ongoing policy debates and possible changes to the task force may affect future screening recommendations.