Early screenings rise among 45 to 49

New findings link more screenings among adults 45 to 49 with higher rates of early stage colorectal cancer detection.

More early stage colon cancers found as screenings rise

New research from the American Cancer Society shows more people aged 45 to 49 are being screened for colorectal cancer, and early stage diagnoses are rising. In two JAMA studies, higher screening rates among this group are linked to more cancers found at an earlier stage. One study shows incidence among 45 to 49 increasing 12% from 2019 to 2022, while another notes a 62% jump in screenings from 2019 to 2023. The ACS had lowered the starting age for screening from 50 to 45 in 2018, and the USPSTF followed in 2021.

Lead author Elizabeth Schafer calls the findings promising, noting the uptick likely reflects first-time screening under new guidelines. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook says early detection means higher cure rates. Star cautions that screening in 45 to 49 remains suboptimal and inequitable by education and insurance status. The piece also notes concerns about policy moves affecting the USPSTF and preventive care budgets, highlighting how politics can shape medical advances.

The data show how policy changes can move health outcomes. Lowering the screening age appears to have opened a window for early detection, but success depends on access and affordability. There is a tension between public health goals and political risk, and gains in early detection may not stick if preventive care becomes a political football. The findings also reveal persistent inequities that must be addressed through targeted outreach and better insurance coverage. Looking ahead, steady investment in prevention could lower long term costs, but only with stable policy support.

Highlights

Progress in prevention is possible but fragile without steady policy backing.