Colorectal cancer continues to be a significant health concern in the United States, with more than 150,000 new cases diagnosed each year and tens of thousands of deaths. Projections indicate that both the number of cases and related deaths are expected to rise slightly in the coming year.
Early detection remains crucial for preventing colorectal cancer. Screening can help identify the disease at an early stage or even before it develops, making treatment more effective and improving survival rates.
Recent research shows an increase in colorectal cancer among younger adults, especially those under age 50. Experts have noted rising rates among people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Many younger patients are also being diagnosed at later stages of the disease.
As a result of these trends, current guidelines recommend that most adults begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45, regardless of symptoms or overall health. The disease often develops slowly from polyps in the colon or rectum that can exist for years before becoming cancerous. Detecting and removing these polyps through screening may prevent cancer entirely.
Several methods are available for colorectal cancer screening. These include colonoscopy—which allows healthcare providers to examine the colon and remove polyps—as well as at-home stool tests (such as FIT or stool DNA tests) that check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA. Other options like CT colonography or sigmoidoscopy may be used in some situations.
Healthcare providers can help determine which screening method is appropriate based on individual risk factors and preferences. People with higher risk—such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer, personal history of polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or certain inherited genetic conditions—may need to start screening earlier than age 45.
Symptoms such as blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits lasting several weeks, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing fatigue should prompt a conversation with a healthcare provider even if the person is younger than 45.
“The encouraging news is that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when screening happens on time,” according to experts cited in recent communications. “Starting screening at age 45—and following your provider’s recommendations—can make a life-saving difference.”
Nevada Health Centers works to improve community health by offering services such as school-based care and mammography programs while serving patients regardless of their ability to pay through sliding fee scales (official website). The organization provides mobile health services via initiatives like the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile and operates multiple centers throughout Nevada (official website). Their mission focuses on ensuring access to quality healthcare services for all residents across both rural and urban areas (official website). Nevada Health Centers is recognized as a federally qualified health center (official website), with Walter Davis serving as chief executive officer (official website).
Individuals who have questions about colorectal cancer screening or wish to schedule an appointment are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about available options.
