March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In 2020, it’s estimated that doctors will diagnose more than 100,000 new cases of colon cancer. When detected and treated in the early stages before it has spread, colon cancer has a 90% survival rate.
In the past it was recommended that you start screening for colon cancer at age 50. However, the American Cancer Society has released updated guidelines that lower the recommended age for colon cancer screening. The updated guidelines reflect a review of decades of statistics that suggest most adults should begin screening for colon cancer at age 45.
Why the change?
The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) reviewed decades of statistics that show a sharp increase in colon cancer in adults under the age of 50. Preventive health screenings can detect abnormal changes in the colon, as well as polyps and tumors. This suggests that early screening can help detect colon cancer sooner and improve the chances of successful treatment and cure.
Certain risk factors, including lifestyle and genetics, raise the risk for developing chronic health conditions, including colon cancer. As lifestyles have changed in the last few decades, the recommended age for certain preventive health screenings require review and revision to reflect the factors that influence our current day-to-day lives.
People with a family history of colorectal cancer
If a parent, sibling, or other close relative has had colorectal cancer, it’s recommended that you begin screening at age 45. Again, early detection is key to improving the chances of survival. Colon cancer often causes no symptoms until it has progressed. Earlier screening, diagnostic testing, and treatment gives you the best chance of successfully treating the cancer.
Existing conditions
Certain medical conditions raise your chances of developing colon cancer. If you have any of the following conditions, it’s recommended that you have a colonoscopy screening every 2-3 years:
- Colon polyps
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis
Individual patient risk
One of the most important aspects of preventing chronic disease is having regular check-ups with your health care provider. While the ACG provides general guidelines, it’s important to note that recommendations based on individual risk factors are the best way to prevent disease.