National campaign urges Ontario and other provinces to lower routine testing age amid increasing cases under 50
A national advocacy organization is urging Ontario and other provinces to lower the routine colorectal cancer screening age to 45, citing what it describes as a troubling rise in diagnoses among younger Canadians.
Colorectal Cancer Canada says the current guidelines do not reflect emerging trends showing increasing incidence rates in adults under 50.
The organization estimates that approximately 26,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year, with about half of those cases affecting people of working age. The disease is responsible for roughly 9,100 deaths annually across the country.
In Ontario, routine screening is currently recommended every two years for average-risk individuals between the ages of 50 and 74. Those with a family history are advised to begin screening at age 50 or 10 years earlier than the age at which their relative was diagnosed, typically through colonoscopy, according to provincial health guidelines.
Barry D. Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, says that approach needs to change.
“The data is unequivocal: colorectal cancer is affecting younger Canadians at an alarming rate,” Stein said in a statement. “Every year of inaction leads to later-stage diagnoses, more aggressive treatments, and preventable loss of life.”
The call for reform comes during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March. The organization has announced a national advocacy event on Parliament Hill on March 10, bringing together patients, survivors, health-care professionals and supporters to press for earlier screening nationwide.
Colorectal Cancer Canada points to research published by the American Cancer Society indicating that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death among people under 50 in the United States. The group says Canadian trends mirror that pattern, particularly among adults aged 45 to 49.
Public attention around the disease has grown in recent months following high-profile cases involving public figures diagnosed in their late 40s.
While advocating for earlier screening, the organization is also encouraging Canadians between 50 and 74 — in line with existing guidelines — to remain up to date with testing.
One recommended option is the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), an at-home screening tool that can detect early signs of colorectal cancer. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
As part of awareness efforts, the organization is promoting “Dress in Blue Day” on March 6, inviting Canadians to wear blue and share photos to spark conversation about prevention and screening.
Advocates argue that lowering the screening age could help catch cancers earlier, reduce the need for intensive treatment and ultimately save lives. Whether provinces move to update guidelines may depend on ongoing data analysis and public health consultations in the months ahead.