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What Are the Latest Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Published: Jan 16, 2024
Staying updated with the latest screening guidelines is crucial for effective colorectal cancer prevention.
When to Start and Stop Screening
Current guidelines recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for those at average risk. Screening should continue until age 75, provided the patient has a life expectancy of at least 10 more years. After 75, the decision to continue screening should be individualized based on health status and prior screening history.
Types of Recommended Tests
The guidelines endorse several tests, including colonoscopy every 10 years, annual FIT, and multitarget stool DNA tests every 1 to 3 years. Each test has its own frequency and detection capabilities, so the choice often depends on patient preference and access.
Importance of Follow-Up
Following up on abnormal screening results is vital. Any positive test, other than a colonoscopy, requires a timely follow-up colonoscopy to assess the entire colon. This step is crucial to ensure any potential issues are addressed before they develop further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Screening should start at age 45 for average-risk individuals.
Colonoscopy, annual FIT, and multitarget stool DNA tests.
It ensures potential issues are thoroughly evaluated.
At age 75, unless individual health factors suggest otherwise.
The Big Picture
Adhering to screening guidelines is a crucial step in preventing colorectal cancer.
References
- US Preventive Services Task Force, Davidson KW, Mangione CM, et al. Collaboration and Shared Decision-Making Between Patients and Clinicians in Preventive Health Care Decisions and US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations. JAMA 2022; 327:1171.
- Doubeni CA, et al. Development and evaluation of safety and effectiveness of novel cancer screening tests for routine clinical use with applications to multicancer detection technologies. Cancer 2022; 128 Suppl 4:883.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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