Why You Should Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer at 45

For many years, age 50 served as the established benchmark for colorectal cancer screenings. However, as new research develops around the causes and effects of colorectal cancer, colonoscopy doctors are noticing an increase in cases among younger individuals. This shift in risk has prompted leading medical organizations to revise their guidelines, urging doctors and patients to begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. 

As medical technology evolves, gastroenterologists can conduct more accurate, timely, and efficient screening procedures, helping patients better understand their health and get ahead of any precancerous or cancerous conditions. Here, we will explore the age shift in colonoscopy screenings, its implications, and the importance of regular colonoscopy screenings for proactive health management. 

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Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, often developing as growths on the inner intestinal lining. Affecting the digestive and gastrointestinal (GI) system, colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern, especially for adults approaching age 45-50. While regular screening has provided opportunities for patients to treat precancerous conditions before they progress, incidences of early-onset colorectal cancer before age 50 have been steadily climbing. This increase in colorectal cancer before age 50 has motivated doctors and gastroenterologists to reassess the recommended age for screening. 

Changes in lifestyles, dietary habits, and increased sedentary behavior exhibited by modern-day adults have been suspected of contributing to this increase in colorectal cancer cases. As humans adapt to the demands of work, life, and society, researchers continue to monitor colon health trends to serve patients better and improve screening procedures. 

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The Shift to 45 — Reviewing the Evidence

As doctors begin noticing more cases of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50, the decision to revise the colonoscopy screening age to 45 remains rooted in substantial evidence. In the year 2023, over 19,000 cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed in individuals younger than 50. Continuing to delay screening until age 50 can cause harm, as doctors and patients could potentially miss precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers, reducing the effectiveness of treatment or medical interventions. 

Implementing this age change allows patients to receive timely healthcare, helping them receive appropriate treatment for cancer remediation and removal before it begins to spread and progress into a higher stage. By locating and treating cancer in its early stages, doctors can improve patient survival rates and reduce the overall burden of colorectal cancer. 

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Understanding the Risks of Colorectal Cancer

Even though age 45 is the new standard for average-risk individuals, it is essential that patients understand their risk factors and regularly visit their doctors for routine health checkups. Risk factors can significantly influence the prevalence of colorectal cancer and the frequency of screening recommended by gastroenterologists. A few things to consider when discussing with your healthcare provider are:

• Family History: A strong family history of colorectal cancer, or polyps can increase risk.  

• Personal History: Previous diagnoses of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can elevate the risks of colorectal cancer. 

• Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or poor diet can contribute to poor gastrointestinal health, ultimately leading to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. 

• Race: Specific races or ethnicities may experience a higher rate of colorectal cancer. Statistically, African American and Hispanic patients are more likely to receive diagnoses for colorectal cancer or instances of precancerous conditions. 

• Genetics: Genetic disparities or disorders can often cause abnormalities that increase the risk of cancer development or gastrointestinal disease. Conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can significantly impact the body’s gastrointestinal system, making patients more susceptible to certain types of GI cancers. 

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Screening Options for Identifying Colorectal Cancer

As specialists in gastrointestinal health, gastroenterologists play a pivotal role in colorectal cancer screening. Their expertise ensures that patients receive personalized recommendations for care and treatment based on their risk profile, preferences, and screening results. In assessing the risk and development of colorectal cancer, gastroenterologists may employ any of the following screening options: 

• Colonoscopy: The traditional method of colorectal cancer screening, colonoscopies entail inserting a flexible tube equipped with a tiny camera into the rectum and colon to visualize the intestinal lining. They are usually the most accurate screening option as they give doctors a direct visual of any abnormalities or precancerous polyps.

• Stool Samples: As the least invasive form of screening, stool samples can often provide doctors with information about the colon, such as evidence of blood or DNA. While they provide enough information to indicate concern, they are often not substantial enough for accurate diagnosis and require frequent testing and supplemental screening. 

• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): Using CT scans, radiologists and gastroenterologists can get 3D images of the colon. This process can often be less accurate, requiring extensive bowel preparation and supplemental screening if abnormalities are detected. 

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The Importance of Regular Screening and Visiting Your Gastroenterologist

If you’re approaching age 45, scheduling a visit to your gastroenterologist can be life-saving. Assessing your risk factors and lifestyle changes early on can help your medical team gather insights into your health and help you determine an appropriate schedule for routine screening. 

Taking charge of your digestive health begins with a visit to a gastroenterologist. They provide personalized risk assessments, expert interpretation of screening results, and tailored advice for prevention and treatment. Regular colonoscopies, guided by their expertise, offer a crucial window into your colon's health, enabling early detection of any changes.

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Dr. Ernest Castro — Denver’s Expert on Colorectal Health

The decision to lower the screening age to 45 emphasizes the importance of proactive health management and updated research in colorectal health. By understanding risk factors, modern lifestyle habits, and the importance of routine scheduling, patients can gather new insights and take charge of their gastrointestinal health. 

As Denver's premier destination for colonoscopy, Dr. Ernest Castro, M.D., provides personalized and informative care to patients throughout the Denver metro area. Dr. Castro delivers the highest quality of care, ensuring patients receive accurate diagnoses promptly to have the best outcomes for a higher quality of life. For more information or to request an appointment, visit our website or call (720) 868-3111 today.