screening

Ontario is lowering the age at which one can be screened for colon cancer.

As of July 1st, the eligible age will drop from 50 to 45 and 40 for those considered to be the highest at-risk.

Health Minister Sylvia Jones says it was prompted by new research that supports detection earlier than before.

“This is based on clinical advice that has changed over the years, and the fact that we were able to not only have that clinical advice but also be able to react to it suggests that when we are working as partners, we end up having very positive care and outcomes for the people of Ontario,” says Jones.

Jones adds that colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada, with rates rising among younger people.

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer diagnosed in Ontario, and the second most common cause of cancer death among Ontario men and third for women.

With the change in age, the province estimates more than one million additional people will have the option of early detection sooner.

“Beginning July 1st, eligible people across Ontario ages 45 to 49 will start to receive letters from the ColonCancerCheck program to help them connect to an initial colorectal cancer screening test,” says Jones.

ColonCancerCheck now performs over 780,000 tests each year.

Residents without a primary care provider can access the test by calling Health811 at 1-866-797-0007.