Colorectal Cancer Canada is urging provinces and territories to lower the recommended age for routine screening from 50 to 45 for those at average risk. This significant recommendation comes in light of alarming statistics indicating rising rates of colorectal cancer among younger Canadians. The organisation argues that this change is essential to effectively address the increasing incidence of the disease, particularly in adults between the ages of 45 and 49.
Alarming Statistics Highlight Need for Change
Recent research underscores the urgency of this initiative. A letter published by the American Cancer Society earlier this year revealed that colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of cancer-related fatalities among individuals under 50 in the United States. This troubling trend is reflected in Canada, where the Canadian Cancer Society has projected that colorectal cancer will rank as the fourth most diagnosed cancer in the country by 2025. It is also predicted to be the third leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women.
The report anticipates that around 26,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year, resulting in approximately 9,100 deaths. This figure accounts for 10 per cent of all new cancer cases and deaths, revealing an urgent need for improved screening protocols.
Current Screening Practices Fall Short
Despite the rising incidence of colorectal cancer, current screening practices in Canada remain stagnant, with all provincial screening programmes commencing at age 50. This leaves a vulnerable population without access to organised screening processes. Brandon Purcell, advocacy manager for prevention and early detection at the Canadian Cancer Society, emphasised the importance of early detection, stating, “A lower screening age for colorectal cancer will catch more cancers early when they are easier to treat and the likelihood of survival is much higher.”
Dr. Harminder Singh, a gastroenterologist based in Manitoba, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the barriers that individuals face when attempting to access screening. He noted that while the incidence of colorectal cancer is lower in younger age groups, the increasing trends cannot be overlooked. “The trend is increasing in all younger age groups; it needs attention and increased awareness,” he stated.
Family History and Increased Risk
Particularly concerning is the situation for those with a familial history of colorectal cancer. Dr. Singh pointed out that awareness and screening for individuals with cancer syndromes in their family trees remain inadequate. “You would at least be making people aware who may be at risk of these familial syndromes,” he said, advocating for more targeted screening for these individuals.
Government Response and Investment in Research
In a related development, Health Minister Marjorie Michel announced on Thursday that the federal government is investing £41 million into 19 new cancer research teams. This funding aims to explore innovative methods for preventing a wide range of cancers, including lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. The initiative will also involve collaboration with researchers from Japan to gain insights into the connections between ageing and early-onset colorectal as well as pancreatic cancers.
Dr. Singh stressed the importance of awareness in cancer screening. “Raising awareness is an individual choice; there needs to be discussion around decision-making,” he stated. He believes that informing the public about the benefits and risks of screenings is crucial to increasing participation and ultimately saving lives.
Why it Matters
The push to lower the colorectal cancer screening age to 45 is not just a statistic; it represents a critical shift in public health policy that could save countless lives. As colorectal cancer increasingly affects younger populations, it is imperative for healthcare systems to adapt and provide timely access to screenings. By prioritising early detection, we can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates, ensuring that Canadians are not left vulnerable to a preventable and treatable disease. This initiative underscores the need for a proactive approach to health that empowers individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to safeguard their well-being.
