New guidelines released by Cancer Care Ontario reveal that the province is reducing the screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45 due to a significant rise in younger individuals diagnosed with the disease. Ontario Health has issued a document outlining the updated recommendation, which will go into effect on July 1.
Following Prince Edward Island’s lead in March, Ontario is now joining in lowering the screening age, a move advocated by Colorectal Cancer Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society. Studies indicate that individuals under 50 are 2 to 2.5 times more likely to develop colorectal cancer compared to previous generations.
The decision aligns with similar actions taken in the United States and Australia, where screening ages were also lowered to 45. The provincial decision is based on expert guidance, evidence of an uptick in early-onset colorectal cancer cases, and models demonstrating that earlier screening can lower disease incidence and mortality rates.
Ontario’s Ministry of Health emphasized that these program adjustments will enhance early detection and treatment of cancer. This initiative builds on a previous measure from two years ago when the province reduced the age for breast cancer screening from 50 to 40.
The standard colorectal cancer screening involves a fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which individuals can perform at home by collecting a stool sample and sending it to a lab. Normal results prompt a repeat test every two years, while a positive result indicating blood in the stool leads to a referral for a colonoscopy.
Under the new guidance, screening invitation letters will be gradually distributed, with doctors able to order FIT tests for individuals aged 45 to 49 starting in July. Recommendations for colonoscopies are also changing for those with a family history of early-onset colorectal cancer, with screening starting at 40 or 10 years before the youngest relative’s diagnosis age, whichever comes first.
The government anticipates a rise in abnormal test results as more individuals undergo screening, leading to increased demand for cancer surgeries and pathology specimens. However, over time, these volumes are expected to stabilize as pre-cancers are detected and treated.
Barry Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, praised Ontario’s decision to lower the screening age, calling it a significant advancement and urging other provinces and territories to follow suit. Additionally, the drop-off locations for completed FIT kits in Ontario are being updated, allowing patients to leave them at any Rexall location or mail them to In-Common Laboratories.