Bowel cancer screening should start at 45 instead of 50, say revamped guidelines
The lower age threshold would align with US recommendations.
This story was updated at 3.30pm to reflect the publication of the updated guidelines.
Patients with average bowel cancer risk are now recommended to start two-yearly screening at age 45, rather than 50.
Those aged 40-44, rather than 45-49, will also be able request screening via their GP prior to receiving their first National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) invitation.
The updated guidelines, published by Cancer Council Australia on Monday, lower the age threshold for screening to align with US recommendations.
