Screening from Age 40 Can Improve Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer

The increasing incidence of early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) in individuals under 50 prompts calls for proactive screening starting at age 40. Current modeling supports the cost-effectiveness of using fecal immunochemical tests and colonoscopy for this age group. Notably, some countries that have initiated screening below 50 have seen a reduction in EOCRC rates. Emphasizing early diagnosis is crucial, as over a third of symptomatic patients already face metastatic disease upon diagnosis.