Cancer Society Updates Colorectal Screening to Include Blood and Stool Tests
6 verified4 unconfirmed
The American Cancer Society has released updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines in May 2026 that add new blood-based and stool-based testing options alongside the traditional colonoscopy. The changes aim to expand access and close the screening gap, as colorectal cancer rates continue to rise among younger adults. The organization still recommends starting screening at age 45 for those at average risk and continuing until age 75. Colonoscopy remains the preferred method and is recommended every 10 years, but the new guidelines offer alternatives to encourage more people to get tested. Under the update, a positive result from any alternative screening must be followed by a colonoscopy within six months for confirmation. Health experts not involved in the report broadly supported the move, saying more options will likely increase overall screening participation.
What’s verified
The American Cancer Society updated its colorectal cancer screening guidelines in May 2026 to include new blood and stool-based tests.
Screening is still recommended to start at age 45 for people at average risk, and colonoscopies should be performed every 10 years.
The new blood test is recommended only for patients who decline or cannot undergo a colonoscopy or stool test.
Any positive result from a stool or blood test must be followed by a colonoscopy within six months.
Colorectal cancer rates are rising in adults under 50, and it is now the leading cause of cancer death in men and women under 50 in the U.S.
Health experts stated that the most effective screening test is the one that a patient actually completes.
Not yet confirmed
Specific brand names mentioned include Cologuard, ColoSense, and Shield, and the stool tests are recommended every three years — reported in one source only.
The guidelines were published on May 27, 2026 — reported in one source only.
About one in three eligible U.S. adults has not been tested as recommended, totaling approximately 20 million people — reported in one source only.
Factors that may influence colorectal cancer risk in younger adults include microplastics — reported in one source only.
Key figures
American Cancer Society (organization)
Babak Firoozi, MD, gastroenterologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, California
Anton Bilchik, MD, surgical oncologist, Providence Saint John’s Cancer Institute
Dr. Karen Dahut, author on the ACS report (mentioned by Healthline)
Robert Smith, ACS senior vice president (mentioned by Healthline)
Sources: healthline.com, theconversation.com
