A 2021 study published inJAMA connection Openanalyzed data from 769,871 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

The study’s authors said the results clearly showed the potentially life-saving benefit of early screening for colorectal cancer.

However, the study results proved otherwise.

colon cancer early detection

Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images

Current guidelines recommend that all adults should start getting screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 45.

“Even if that risk does not rise to the level that makes screening an appropriate step.”

No matter your age, you should pay attention to unusual symptoms.

What This Means For You

Detecting colorectal cancer early can dramatically impact survival rates.

If you have any symptoms of the diseaseregardless of your agetalk to your doctor about the next steps.

2021;4(6):e2112539.

doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.12539

American Cancer Society.American Cancer Society guideline for colorectal cancer screening.