:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/VWH-Colon-Cancer_header-Final-d3468d5395c0476ebfed0f983bfc0f61.png)
Colon cancer was once primarily a diagnosis for older adults, but the statistics are changing. In recent years, cases have been rising among people younger than 50, which is why the American Cancer Society lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45.
Experts aren’t sure why there’s an increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults. Genetics are a factor, but environmental exposures, dietary changes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle could all contribute to this complicated disease.
Colon Cancer vs. Colorectal Cancer
You may hear the terms “colorectal cancer” and “colon cancer” used interchangeably. Colorectal cancer is an umbrella term that refers to cancer in the colon or rectum. While colon cancer originates in the colon, rectal cancer begins in the rectum. Some researchers have proposed discontinuing the term colorectal cancer in favor of using specific disease names because of differences in risk factors, pathology, and surgical approaches.
In my 10 years of practice, I’ve noticed a significant increase in the number of high-risk or dysplastic polyps in patients even as young as age 20. The polyps have a high likelihood of becoming colon cancer by the time these patients reach their mid to late 40s, but the screening rate is the lowest among people in this age group. Why? People don’t know about the new screening standard, and it can take a long time to get an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
To fill this gap, a host of new screening tools have become available to increase the accessibility to colorectal cancer screening, including the Shield blood test and an updated at-home stool test from Cologuard. These tests can make screening easier for patients who have limited access to health care or have conditions that make it risky to get a colonoscopy.
But keep in mind that while these tests are convenient, they’re not substitutes for a colonoscopy. Sometimes, an at-home test performed improperly can lead to false results.
A colonoscopy is still the gold standard for screening. During the procedure, a provider can remove polyps to prevent them from turning into cancer. You can talk about the different screening options with your doctor, but generally, for patients who have access and can tolerate the procedure, I would still recommend a colonoscopy. It’s usually an outpatient procedure and it has been proven to save lives. Let’s use our resources to turn these statistics around.
—Qin Rao, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist and Verywell Health Medical Expert Board member
What’s New in Colon Cancer Screening
What to Know About Colon Cancer Risks
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Do You Need a Prescription for a Stool or Blood Test?Cologuard is available by prescription only, while a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies. You can also opt for the Shield blood test during a routine visit at your primary doctor’s office.
-
Should You Get Screened Before Age 45?
-
How Often Do You Need to Get Screened?The frequency of screening varies based on the type of test performed.
Colonoscopy: every 10 years
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: every five years if you get a FIT every year.
CT colonography: every five years
FIT: every year or two
Cologuard: once every three years
Shield blood test: once every three years
