Colorectal Cancer Screenings Expand to Include Younger Adults

Expanded eligibility for colorectal cancer screenings is now available for a wider age range. Early detection is critical for successful treatment. Regular testing can drastically reduce the risk of advanced-stage cancer.

Screening Program Update

The Health Promotion Administration (HPA) reports that almost 870,000 individuals utilized government-funded colorectal cancer screenings during the first five months of this year. This follows the recent expansion of eligibility criteria.

In 2022, Taiwan saw 17,643 new cases, making colorectal cancer the second most common type of cancer. While most cases occur in those aged 50 and older, the incidence rate among those aged 45 to 49 is increasing.

Eligibility and Testing

Those now eligible for government-funded screenings include people between 45 and 74, and those between 40 and 44 with a family history of colorectal cancer. These individuals can get a free fecal occult blood test every two years.

The HPA indicated that this year’s screening participation has increased by 43.57 percent compared to the same period last year. The fecal occult blood test is a non-invasive method used to identify hidden blood in the stool, and requires no special diet or preparation.

“People who have an abnormal result from the test do not need to panic, but should cooperate with the healthcare facility and get a colonoscopy, the HPA said, adding that most colon polyps can be removed during the procedure, preventing them from growing into colorectal cancer.”

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According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for stage 0 or stage 1 colorectal cancer is over 90 percent, but it decreases to below 20 percent for stage 4 (American Cancer Society 2024).

Importance of Early Detection

The HPA emphasizes that early detection and intervention are vital. Taking a fecal occult blood test regularly is recommended, with individuals advised to maintain healthy habits for optimal gut health. Those eligible should bring their National Health Insurance card to a contracted clinic to get a sample collection tube.

After a bowel movement, the provided wooden implement can be used to gather a stool sample at home. The sample should then be returned for testing. Studies suggest that biennial testing can reduce advanced-stage colorectal cancer incidence by 29 percent and mortality by 35 percent.