New Guidelines for Colorectal Screening
For decades, the American Cancer Society recommended that adults who are at average risk for colorectal cancer start having regular colonoscopies at age 50. Recently, however, that recommendation has changed.
The newest guideline is that colorectal cancer screenings should begin at age 45.
Why the change? Cases of colorectal cancer are on the rise among young and middle-age people. From 2008 to 2017 deaths of people under age 55 have increased one percent each year even though the number of colorectal cancer cases has declined steadily during that same time period.
Average-risk adults in good health should continue colorectal cancer screening through age 75. Colonoscopies should be performed every 10 years unless your medical provider recommends more frequent testing. People with a higher risk of colorectal cancer, such as a family history, should consult their medical provider to determine the best age to start screening.
Source: npr.org