Ottawa residents and Ontarians across the province have a new reason to talk to their doctors: colorectal cancer screening is now recommended starting at age 45, down from the previous threshold of 50.
Cancer Care Ontario published updated guidelines this week, formally lowering the provincial screening age in response to what officials are calling a "notable" increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger people. The shift brings Ontario in line with growing evidence — and guidance from health bodies in the United States — that the disease is no longer predominantly affecting those over 50.
Why the Change Now?
Colorectal cancer has long been considered a disease of older adults, but that picture has been shifting for years. Studies have shown a steady climb in incidence among people in their 40s and even 30s, a trend that has puzzled researchers but prompted urgent action from health agencies.
Cancer Care Ontario's updated guidelines reflect a recognition that waiting until 50 means some cancers — which are highly treatable when caught early — are being found at later, more dangerous stages in younger patients.
For Ottawa residents, this means that anyone who turned 45 and has been putting off a screening conversation with their family doctor now has a clear clinical reason to book that appointment.
What Screening Involves
Colorectal cancer screening typically starts with a fecal immunochemical test (FIT), a non-invasive at-home test that checks for hidden blood in stool. It's free under OHIP and doesn't require a colonoscopy upfront.
If the FIT comes back positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is recommended — a procedure that can both detect and, in many cases, remove precancerous growths called polyps before they develop into cancer.
For those at average risk with no family history of the disease, the FIT test every two years is the standard recommendation. People with a family history or other risk factors should speak with their doctor about whether earlier or more frequent screening is appropriate.
Ottawa's Health System Impact
The expanded age range means Ontario's health system — including Ottawa's hospital network and primary care providers — will need to absorb a larger eligible population. Ottawa Public Health and local family health teams are expected to help communicate the new guidelines to residents who fall in the newly eligible age bracket.
It's worth noting that screening programs work best when uptake is high. In Ontario, colorectal cancer screening rates have historically lagged behind other provinces, meaning many eligible residents aren't getting tested even under the old guidelines. Advocates hope the updated age threshold — combined with public awareness campaigns — will improve those numbers.
What Ottawa Residents Should Do
If you're 45 or older and haven't discussed colorectal cancer screening with your healthcare provider, now is the time. You can:
- Talk to your family doctor or nurse practitioner about your risk level and the right screening schedule
- Request a FIT kit — it can often be done at home and sent back by mail
- Check with Ottawa Public Health for local resources and clinics offering screening support
Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in Canada, but it's also one of the most preventable when caught early. The new guidelines are a clear signal: don't wait until 50.
Source: CBC Ottawa / Cancer Care Ontario
