Home / Health / Nova Scotia Weighs Lowering Colon Cancer Screening Age to 45
Nova Scotia Weighs Lowering Colon Cancer Screening Age to 45
27 Mar
Summary
- A Stage 4 rectal cancer patient advocates for lowering screening age.
- Nova Scotia considers reducing routine screening age from 50 to 45.
- Early detection can save lives and reduce healthcare costs.
Krya Hansen, diagnosed with Stage 4 rectal cancer last year, is actively raising awareness by advocating for a lower routine age for colon cancer screening. Currently, Nova Scotia sends home test kits starting at age 50, but Hansen supports a bill to begin screening at age 45. This proposal, put forth by the Nova Scotia Liberal caucus, suggests an initial cost of $500,000, which proponents argue would be offset by significant healthcare savings and saved lives.
About 900 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually in Nova Scotia, resulting in over 300 deaths. Lowering the screening age to 45, a practice already adopted in the United States and Australia, is seen as a potential way to improve outcomes. Health Minister Michelle Thompson stated that the department is reviewing the recommendation and consulting with experts, aiming to improve the current home test kit response rate, which stands at 46% as of 2024.
