A national survey released by MedStar Health reveals widespread confusion about colorectal cancer screening guidelines, with more than 75% of Americans unsure when or how often to get a colonoscopy, potentially contributing to missed early detections of a preventable disease.
The survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, conducted in recognition of March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, highlighted key misconceptions among respondents. More than 36% of those eligible for screening reported skipping colorectal checks, despite guidelines recommending initiation at age 45 for average-risk individuals. Four in ten believed screening after 45 requires a family history of the disease, which doctors say is not the case. One-third incorrectly thought testing should begin before age 45, while nearly half assumed screenings occur every five years rather than the standard every 10 years for normal-risk patients.
MedStar Health gastroenterologist Nikiya Asamoah, MD, stressed the life-saving potential of timely screening. “Detecting colorectal cancer early can save your life,” she said. “Make sure to ask your doctor when to start screening and how often to follow up.”
The American Cancer Society lowered the recommended starting age from 50 to 45 in 2018 due to rising diagnoses in younger adults. The survey found one in ten respondents personally know someone diagnosed with colon cancer under age 45. Allison Solomon’s case illustrates this trend; her cancer was detected at age 37 during a colonoscopy prompted by severe symptoms including blood in stool, bowel changes, stomach cramps, and loss of appetite. “Colonoscopies aren’t fun but important to stay on top of if you’re eligible,” Solomon said. “My symptoms were severe, so I listened to my body and got screened early.”
MedStar Health gastroenterologist Dana Sloane, MD, noted that colorectal cancer often presents without symptoms, making routine screening essential. “Having these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer,” Sloane said. “Colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms. Appropriate screening is critical for early detection. Your doctor can check and help give you peace of mind.” Only 13% of survey participants could identify all common symptoms, which include weight loss, fatigue, lump in rectum, nausea, lump in abdomen, and vomiting.
The findings align with broader trends showing increased early-onset colorectal cancer cases, underscoring the need for public education. MedStar Health encourages individuals to assess personal risk through its free online tool at www.MedStarHealth.org/ColonHRA.
While the survey focuses on national data, colorectal cancer affects Southern Maryland communities through regional hospitals like MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, where screening and treatment services support local residents. Early detection efforts remain vital in areas with access to gastroenterology care amid rising incidence rates.