Colon Health in 2026: 45 is the New 50

If you’re in your 40s or older, you’ve probably gotten more intentional about your health. This year, make sure your colon health is on that list, too.

Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults, and national guidelines now reflect that reality. The good news: a screening with your primary care provider can catch colorectal cancer early or even prevent it.

Why screen at 45 and not 50?

For many years, average-risk screening commonly began at age 50. That changed because colorectal cancer rates have been rising in adults under 50, and experts determined there’s meaningful benefit to starting earlier.

• The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its recommendation to screen adults ages 45–75 (previously 50–75), citing moderate net benefit for screening ages 45–49.
• The American Cancer Society recommends starting at 45 for people at average risk.
• The CDC mirrors this guidance: most people should begin screening soon after turning 45.

In plain terms: more people in their 40s are being diagnosed, and starting screening at 45 helps catch problems earlier, often before symptoms show up.

If you’re 45+, you’re in the screening zone

This is the part that surprises many people: early colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps often don’t cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why screening matters. Feeling well doesn’t always mean everything is well.

Don’t wait if colorectal cancer runs in your family

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, you should seek a consultation even if you’re not yet 45.

You may need to start screening earlier and/or screen more often if you have:

• A parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with colorectal cancer
• A first-degree relative with advanced polyps
• Multiple relatives with colorectal cancer (especially on the same side of the family)
• A family history of genetic conditions that raise risk (such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)

Your Southeast Medical Group provider can review your family history and help you choose the right screening plan.

Symptoms you should not ignore at any age

If any of the following are persistent or unexplained, it’s worth being evaluated:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• A lasting change in bowel habits (new constipation, diarrhea, or change in stool shape/consistency)
• Ongoing abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• New or worsening fatigue (sometimes related to anemia)

Screening options in 2026

You have choices. The “best” test is the one you’ll complete and stay current with.

Common options include:

• Colonoscopy (often every 10 years if normal): allows a clinician to find and remove polyps during the same exam.
• Stool-based tests (typically yearly FIT or stool DNA every 1-3 years, depending on the test): done at home; a positive test needs a follow-up colonoscopy.
• CT colonography (often every 5 years): imaging-based; abnormal results still require colonoscopy for removal/biopsy.

If you’re not sure what fits your situation, a primary care visit is the right starting point.

Daily habits that support colon health

Screening is the cornerstone. Lifestyle supports the bigger picture:

• Aim for more fiber (beans, lentils, vegetables, berries, whole grains)
• Move regularly; even consistent walking helps
• Limit processed meats and keep red meat in moderation
• Don’t normalize chronic constipation or ongoing digestive symptoms - tell your primary care provider

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re 45 or older, or if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, Colon Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to talk with a Southeast Medical Group provider about a screening plan that fits your health history and preferences.