Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most preventable yet deadly malignancies, and timely screening is central to reducing its burden. This expert‑led program delivers a concise, evidence‑based review of CRC screening, bridging epidemiology and disease biology with guideline‑driven clinical decision‑making. The faculty will examine CRC natural history, progression, and staging to highlight the powerful role of screening in identifying and removing precancerous lesions before cancer develops. Participants will explore current gaps in CRC screening across the United States, with discussion on persistent disparities—particularly among populations served by federally qualified health centers (FQHCs). Emerging incidence and mortality trends will be reviewed, including the concerning rise in CRC among adults younger than 50 years, reinforcing the rationale for initiating screening at age 45 and expanding proactive screening efforts. The program synthesizes national recommendations for CRC screening in average‑risk adults and provides a practical comparison of available screening modalities. Stool‑based and direct‑visualization tests will be discussed in detail, with attention to screening intervals, test performance, patient logistics, follow‑up requirements, and real‑world feasibility. Emphasis will be placed on translating evidence into practice—helping clinicians navigate test selection, address barriers to adherence, and improve screening completion. The session will conclude with actionable strategies to individualize CRC screening based on patient risk factors, preferences, and access considerations, empowering clinicians to deliver patient‑centered preventive care and improve screening uptake and outcomes.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:- Routinely recommend CRC screening to all patients aged 45 years to 75 years
- Summarize the various colorectal cancer screening modalities and the recommended screening interval
- Individualize recommendations for screening modality based on patient characteristics
Acknowledgment of Commercial Support
This activity is supported by an educational grant from Exact Sciences.
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