MADISON, Wis. – One in 25 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer in their lifetime, according to UW Health. The urgency of this statistic is underscored by the recent passing of 48-year-old actor James Van Der Beek from the disease this week.
Screening Age Lowered to 45
Early detection is key to improving outcomes for colorectal cancer, and guidelines have shifted to reflect that.
Doctors are observing a concerning trend: an increase in colon cancer diagnoses among younger adults. “Unfortunately, we have been seeing a little bit of an increase in incidence in colorectal cancer in patients under the age of 45,” said Dr. Laura Miotke, an oncologist at UW Health. “There’s lots of research going on to why that is.”
The recommended age to begin regular screenings has been lowered from 50 to 45 in response to this rise. Dr. Jordan Karlitz, the senior medical officer of screening at Exact Sciences, noted that many people are unaware of this change. “A lot of people may not realize the screening age used to be 50, but it was moved down to 45.”
Screening options extend beyond traditional colonoscopies. At-home tests like Cologuard are becoming increasingly popular and effective. “One of the good things about Cologuard is it has a very, very high detection rate for early stage colorectal cancer, which is highly treatable,” Karlitz explained. “And it also has the ability to detect pre-cancerous polyps.”
Accessibility of Screening is Improving
The increased availability of tests like Cologuard is making screening more accessible. “Having those tests be more accessible to patients increases the number of patients in our community who get screened, who should get screened, and then they’re able to come in and make an appointment for a colonoscopy or some other testing after that,” Dr. Miotke said.
Regardless of the method chosen, the timing of screening is paramount. “We are seeing rising rates of colorectal cancer, including advanced stage cancers in that 45 to 49 year old age group,” Karlitz emphasized. “So again, don’t wait till you’re 46, 47, or 48. Be proactive and get it done at 45.”
Bowlin’ for Colons Fundraiser
On March 1, the UW Carbone Cancer Center will host “Bowlin’ for Colons,” a fundraising event for colon cancer research. The event will be held at nine participating bowling alleys in the area. Interested individuals can register or donate here.
