Ontario lowers colorectal cancer screening age to 45 amid rising early-onset cases

Ontario will lower its recommended colorectal cancer screening age from 50 to 45 starting July 1, 2026. The change follows rising early-onset cases and aligns with similar updates in Prince Edward Island, the United States, and Australia. The decision comes after expert reviews and modelling showed that earlier screening could reduce both incidence and mortality. People under 50 now face two to 2.5 times greater risk of diagnosis compared to past generations. A routine screening involves a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every two years for those with normal results.

A positive FIT result triggers a referral for a colonoscopy to check for cancer. Ontario is also adjusting guidelines for those with a family history of colorectal cancer at age 60 or older. Prince Edward Island became the first Canadian province to adopt the lower screening age in March 2026.

Barry Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, has publicly supported Ontario’s move. The shift reflects growing evidence that earlier detection can save lives and reduce long-term healthcare burdens. The updated policy takes effect on July 1, 2026. It brings Ontario in line with international trends and aims to address the sharp rise in early-onset colorectal cancer. Health officials expect the change to improve detection rates and patient outcomes.