Early Screening: The Key to Beating Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a serious and widespread health issue. It is expected to cause nearly 53, 000 deaths in the US this year. This type of cancer is becoming more common among younger adults, which is a worrying trend that scientists are trying to understand. Early detection and prevention are crucial for improving survival rates and treatment outcomes. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests that adults aged 45 to 75 should get screened for colorectal cancer. The idea of starting screening earlier has gained traction. A recent study from Taiwan shows that beginning colorectal cancer screening at 40 can significantly reduce cases by 21% and deaths by 39% compared to starting at 50. This finding has important implications for public health. The study used fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), which are non-invasive, at-home exams that detect blood in stool. This can indicate abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. Nearly 40, 000 people in their 40s participated in early and continuous screening for the study, while about 225, 000 people in their 50s only underwent regular screening. The results showed 26. 1 cases of colorectal cancer per 100, 000 person-years in the younger group, compared to 42. 6 cases in the older group. This highlights the potential benefits of early screening. However, the researchers caution that these findings may not apply to all populations and call for further international research to guide global health policies. In Taiwan, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer. The nation has expanded its screening program to include people aged 45 to 74, allowing them to get FIT screenings for free every two years. Those aged 40 to 44 can also participate if they have a family history of the disease. In the US, the USPSTF lowered its recommendation for starting colorectal cancer screening from age 50 to 45 in 2021. The task force recommends FITs as a screening method that should be done annually. Other screening options include colonoscopy, CT colonography, and flexible sigmoidoscopy. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer may need to start screening earlier and get screened more often. Medicare Part B covers annual FIT screenings for people 45 and older. The minimum age was lowered from 50 to 45 in 2023. If the FIT test result is positive, Medicare covers a follow-up colonoscopy. This shows a growing recognition of the importance of early detection in fighting colorectal cancer.