U.S. Multi-Society Task Force Endorses Colorectal Cancer Screening in Average-Risk Persons at Age 45
Douglas K. Rex, MD, MASGE, reviewing Patel SG, et al. Gastrointest Endosc 2021 Nov 15.
In a recommendation characterized as “weak recommendation; low-quality evidence,” the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer (MSTF) now recommends initiating screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) in average-risk persons aged 45 to 49 years old, lowering the recommended age to begin screening from the previous recommendation of 50 years.
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COMMENTThe MSTF represents the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association, and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Together with the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, all major U.S. groups making CRC recommendations now endorse screening in average-risk individuals beginning at age 45 years.
Note to readers: At the time we reviewed this paper, its publisher noted that it was not in final form and that subsequent changes might be made.
CITATION(S)
Patel SG, May FP, Anderson JC, et al. Updates on age to start and stop colorectal cancer screening: recommendations from the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastrointest Endosc 2021 Nov 15. (Epub ahead of print) (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gie.2021.06.012)