Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidance

VA Dept of Health Newsroom

Published March 3rd, 2026

Detected March 4th, 2026

Summary

The Virginia Department of Health has issued guidance recommending that individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45. The guidance highlights rising rates in younger adults and emphasizes the importance of early detection through screening tests.

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What changed

This document from the Virginia Department of Health provides guidance on colorectal cancer screening, recommending that individuals at average risk commence screening at age 45. It notes an increase in colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50 and outlines symptoms, risk reduction strategies, and available screening methods such as stool tests and colonoscopies.

Healthcare providers should be aware of the updated screening recommendations and advise patients accordingly. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers regarding appropriate screening schedules, especially if they have symptoms or a family history of the disease. While this is guidance and not a binding rule, adherence is crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes.

What to do next

Review and disseminate updated colorectal cancer screening recommendations to relevant staff.
Advise patients at average risk to begin screening at age 45.
Encourage patients with symptoms or family history to consult healthcare providers for earlier screening.

Source document (simplified)

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. These two parts of the large intestine helps your body digest food and remove waste.

Most colorectal cancers begin as small growths called polyps (small tissue). Polyps can slowly turn into cancer over many years if not found and removed.

Rising Rates in Younger Adults

Colorectal cancer is most common in older adults. In Virginia, it’s the fourth most common diagnosed cancer.

However, rates are increasing in younger adults too. Rates of colorectal cancer in adults under 50 have been rising over the past 20 years. Studies show incidence rates increasing by around 2 to 3 percent per year in younger adults.

Don’t Ignore the Signs and Symptoms

In early stages, colorectal cancer often doesn’t have any symptoms. But as it grows, symptoms may include:

A change in bowel habits that last more than a few days. This can include diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool (poop).
Rectal bleeding with bright red blood.
Blood in the stool that might make the stool look dark brown or black.
Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain.
Weakness and fatigue.
Unintended weight loss.
A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved by having one.

Reduce Your Risk with Healthy Habits

There is no way to completely prevent cancer, but you can help reduce your risk by:

Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limiting the amount of red and processed meats you eat
Not smoking and limiting alcohol

Catch It Early with Screening

Screening tests can detect cancer early and often finds polyps before they turn into cancer. Treatment works best when cancer is detected early. ****

People at average risk should begin screening at age 45. People with symptoms or who have a family history should talk to a healthcare provider about getting screened earlier.

There are multiple screening options, the two most common include:

Stool tests you do at home every 1-3 years
Colonoscopy in a medical setting every 10 years
Colorectal cancer can be serious, but paying attention to symptoms and getting screened can save lives.