Ontario lowers colorectal cancer screening age to 45 starting July 1

Ontario will lower the recommended age for colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45. The change takes effect on 1 July, bringing the province in line with international guidelines. Health officials say the move aims to detect cases earlier and reduce deaths from the disease. The decision follows rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Studies show people under 50 are now two to 2.5 times more likely to be diagnosed than previous generations. Earlier screening has already proven effective in cutting both cases and fatalities.

Starting in July, doctors can order a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for anyone aged 45 to 49. Those with one relative diagnosed at 60 or older will be advised to screen every two years from age 45. For individuals with a family history of early-onset colorectal cancer, colonoscopy screening will now begin at 40 instead of 50.

Ontario’s update aligns with policies in the United States and Australia, both of which recently lowered their screening age to 45. Prince Edward Island became the first Canadian province to adopt the change. Colorectal Cancer Canada has welcomed the decision, calling it a major advancement in prevention. The new guidelines will expand access to life-saving tests for thousands of Ontarians. By catching cancer earlier, the province expects to lower both diagnosis rates and deaths. The policy shift officially begins on 1 July.