Colorectal Cancer Canada is urging provincial and territorial governments to lower the standard age for routine colorectal cancer screenings from 50 to 45 for average-risk Canadians. The call comes in response to alarming trends indicating an increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults. The organisation asserts that this change is critical to address the growing number of diagnoses in this demographic.
Rising Rates Among Younger Canadians
A recent press release from Colorectal Cancer Canada highlights the urgent need for a shift in screening age, citing expert consensus on the rising rates of colorectal cancer among individuals under 50. A research letter from the American Cancer Society published in January noted that colorectal cancer has now become the foremost cause of cancer-related mortality for those under 50 in the United States. This trend is echoed in Canada, where incidence rates among adults aged 45 to 49 are steadily climbing.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is expected to rank as the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada by 2025, becoming the third leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women. The organisation estimates that 26,400 Canadians will receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis this year, with approximately 9,100 fatalities, accounting for 10 per cent of all new cancer cases and deaths in Canada.
The Need for Organised Screening
Despite the rising number of colorectal cancer cases, existing provincial screening programmes still commence at age 50, leaving a significant portion of the at-risk population without access to timely and organised screening. Brandon Purcell, the advocacy manager for prevention and early detection at the Canadian Cancer Society, emphasised in a recent statement that lowering the screening age could facilitate earlier detection when treatment outcomes are significantly better.
Dr. Harminder Singh, a gastroenterologist based in Manitoba, also expressed concern regarding the barriers to screening. He highlighted that while incidence rates are lower in younger age groups, they are rising and warrant greater attention. Dr. Singh noted that individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer should be prioritised in screening efforts, as current detection rates for those with familial cancer syndromes remain suboptimal.
Government Action and Funding Initiatives
In a related development, Health Minister Marjorie Michel announced a federal investment of £41 million to support 19 new cancer research teams. These initiatives aim to explore innovative strategies for preventing various cancers, including colorectal cancer. The funding will also facilitate collaboration with researchers in Japan to better understand the connections between aging and early-onset colorectal and pancreatic cancers.
Dr. Singh reiterated the importance of public awareness regarding cancer screening. He stated that raising awareness involves informed decision-making and understanding potential benefits, as well as minimal risks associated with screening. “People need to be aware of the options available to them,” he remarked.
Why it Matters
The push to lower the colorectal cancer screening age is a critical public health initiative that could save lives by enabling earlier detection in a demographic that is increasingly at risk. With rising incidence rates among younger Canadians, it’s imperative that healthcare systems evolve to address these trends. By prioritising routine screenings for those aged 45 and above, we can improve outcomes, reduce mortality rates, and ultimately foster a more informed and health-conscious society. The call for action from Colorectal Cancer Canada underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention, one that includes accessible screenings for all at-risk populations.
