The American Cancer Society lowered the recommended age to begin screening for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45, but Samir Gupta, MD, of UC San Diego Health, said the updated guideline should be implemented cautiously.
Here's what you should know:
1. Dr. Gupta's commentary was published in Gastroenterology. Dr. Gupta said diverting resources from the higher-risk, older population to the lower-risk young population could worsen CRC disparities.
2. He said he feels individuals with lower socioeconomic status are "less likely to benefit from new health interventions than individuals with more knowledge and money."
3. Dr. Gupta said all racial and ethnic groups should begin screening for CRC when they turn 50 and continue until they turn 75. He did note higher-risk populations should intensify their screening efforts.
4. CRC is declining in every age range, aside from an increase in the under-50 population.