The American Cancer Society is now recommended colon cancer screening begin at age 45 for those with routine risk of colon cancer.
This is based on recent evidence that colon cancer is increasing among the younger generation and that the routine of screening at age 50 is missing these patients.
Options for screening include colonoscopy, checking for microscopic blood in the bowel, and genetic testing of the bowel with the new Cologard Kit, with which we have had much success.
Additional recommendations include the following:
- Regular screening is recommended through age 75 for those at average risk who have a life expectancy of more than 10 years.
- For adults aged 76 to 85, clinicians should individualize the decision to screen.
- Screening should be discouraged among those aged 86 and older.