Benefits of Screening for Colon Cancer
Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable cancers through regular screening.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined. While screening and improved treatments have helped reduce death rates over the years, diagnoses are increasing among younger adults.
Understanding the latest statistics and the benefits of screening can help save lives.
Colorectal Cancer Facts: 2026 Statistics
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026:
158,850 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States.
55,230 people will die from colorectal cancer.
108,860 new cases of colon cancer and 49,990 new cases of rectal cancer will be diagnosed.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women, excluding skin cancers.
45% of new colorectal cancer diagnoses occur in adults younger than 65, compared to 27% in 1995.
Although colorectal cancer rates have declined among adults 65 and older, rates are moving in the opposite direction for younger generations.
Between 2013 and 2022, colorectal cancer incidence rates increased by approximately 3% annually among adults ages 20 to 49. Even more concerning, three out of four colorectal cancers diagnosed in adults younger than 50 are discovered after the disease has already spread beyond its original location.
These statistics reinforce the importance of awareness, early detection and routine screening.
Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters
Colorectal cancer often develops from precancerous growths called polyps in the colon or rectum. These polyps may take years to develop into cancer and often cause no noticeable symptoms.
Regular screening provides an opportunity to detect these growths before they become cancerous.
Screening Can:
1. Prevent Colorectal Cancer
During a colonoscopy, healthcare providers can identify and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. This makes colorectal cancer one of the few cancers that can often be prevented through screening.
2. Detect Cancer Earlier
When colorectal cancer is detected before it spreads, treatment is generally more successful.
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year relative survival rate for colorectal cancer is approximately:
91% when diagnosed at a localized stage.
74% when cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
15% when cancer has spread to distant parts of the body.
These statistics demonstrate why finding colorectal cancer early can make such a significant difference.
3. Reduce Colorectal Cancer Deaths
Screening has contributed to declining colorectal cancer death rates over the past several decades. By identifying precancerous polyps and detecting cancer at earlier stages, screening can help prevent deaths and improve treatment outcomes.
4. Reduce the Need for More Extensive Treatment
When colorectal cancer is discovered early, treatment may be less complicated than when the disease has spread. Preventing cancer through polyp removal can also help patients avoid the physical, emotional and financial challenges associated with cancer treatment.
Colorectal Cancer Is Increasing in Younger Adults
One of the most concerning trends highlighted in the ACS 2026 report is the rising number of colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger adults.
In fact, half of all colorectal cancer diagnoses in adults younger than 50 occur between ages 45 and 49, an age group already eligible for routine screening.
Despite this, only approximately 37% of adults ages 45 to 49 are up to date with recommended colorectal cancer screening.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, certain inherited conditions, inflammatory bowel disease or other risk factors may need to begin screening earlier.
Screening Options Are Available
Colonoscopy remains an important screening method because it allows healthcare providers to examine the colon and remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure.
Other screening options include stool-based tests, CT colonography and certain blood-based tests.
In its updated 2026 screening guidelines, the American Cancer Society expanded its recommendations to include additional at-home stool tests and blood-based screening options. However, blood-based tests are not currently preferred because they are less effective at detecting precancerous growths and early-stage cancers.
Any positive result from a non-colonoscopy screening test should be followed by a timely colonoscopy.
Talk with your healthcare provider about which screening method is appropriate for you.
Take Action: Get Screened at 45
Despite the proven benefits of colorectal cancer screening, the American Cancer Society reports that more than 20 million eligible Americans are not up to date with recommended screening.
Colorectal cancer can develop without symptoms, making regular screening especially important even when you feel healthy.
At the Great Plains Colon Cancer Task Force, we are committed to raising awareness about colorectal cancer prevention and early detection. Our goal is to encourage more individuals to understand their risk, recognize the importance of screening and take action to protect their health.
If you're 45 or older and haven't been screened, now is the time to talk with your healthcare provider. A simple screening could save your life.
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