The American Cancer Society added a blood-based test as a new option to its colorectal cancer screening guidelines on May 27, 2026 [5].
This update seeks to increase early detection rates at a time when colorectal cancer is rising among younger adults. Because the disease is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under age 50 [2], health officials are prioritizing methods that remove barriers to screening.
The ACS now recommends three low-cost ways to check for colon cancer [3]. The newly added blood test is designed for efficiency and can be performed in about five minutes [4]. This addition provides a less invasive alternative to traditional screenings, which may encourage more patients to undergo regular checks.
Medical guidelines state that screening for colorectal cancer should begin at age 45 [1]. The move to include blood-based testing is part of a broader effort to close the screening gap and catch cases before they progress to advanced stages.
The accessibility of these tests is critical for younger populations who may avoid traditional procedures. By offering a rapid blood test, providers can more effectively monitor at-risk groups in the U.S. and identify malignancies earlier in the disease cycle.
“The American Cancer Society added a blood-based test as a new option to its colorectal cancer screening guidelines.”
The inclusion of a blood-based test in the ACS guidelines reflects a shift toward non-invasive diagnostics to combat a specific public health trend: the spike of colorectal cancer in younger adults. By lowering the threshold for screening through speed and ease of access, the medical community aims to reduce mortality rates for patients under 50 who may not yet be symptomatic or inclined to seek traditional screenings.
