CAG applauds the Ontario government for its decision to lower the starting age for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening from 50 to 45, and to 40 for those at increased risk.

This important step reflects growing evidence that CRC rates are increasing among younger adults and reinforces the value of earlier detection and prevention.

Lowering the screening age will help more Ontarians access potentially life-saving screening earlier, improving opportunities to detect CRC at more treatable stages and identify pre-cancerous lesions before cancer develops.

CAG recognizes the leadership shown by Ontario in advancing CRC prevention and continues to support evidence-based screening strategies that improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of digestive disease across Canada.

We also acknowledge and thank Colorectal Cancer Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society for their continued advocacy and leadership in helping advance earlier access to CRC screening.

Read the Government's News Release